A primary care nurse practitioner (NP)sees a patient who is concerned about constipation.The NP learns that the patient has three to four bowel movements per week with occasional hard stools but no straining with defecation.The NP should recommend:

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The objective definition of constipation is two or fewer bowel movements per week or excessive straining.This patient does not meet these criteria,so the NP should recommend increasing fluids and fiber to help soften stools.Laxatives should not be used unless constipation is present or is chronic to avoid laxative dependence.

A Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (NP)sees a Patient Who Is