The nurse is caring for a patient who reports feeling constipated, yet passes frequent small liquid stools. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The patient's symptoms suggest that there may be a fecal impaction, which is a buildup of stool that can cause liquid stool to pass around it. The nurse should assess the patient for signs of an impaction, such as abdominal distention and discomfort, and consider treatment options such as stool softeners or enemas. Administering an antidiarrheal medication may worsen the impaction, and checking for rebound tenderness is not relevant to the patient's reported symptoms. Explaining that liquid stools indicate diarrhea may be a helpful education point, but it does not address the underlying cause of the patient's symptoms.

The Nurse Is Caring for a Patient Who Reports Feeling