The nurse is caring for a patient who is constipated and has not had a bowel movement for 3 days. The nurse performs a rectal examination and finds hard dry stool in the rectum. What is the best option to help the patient have a bowel movement?
A) Glass of warmed prune juice
B) Loperamide (Imodium)
C) Oral fiber supplement
D) An oil retention enema

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The patient with hard, dry stool in the rectum will benefit from an oil retention enema because it will soften the stool and make it easier to pass. Imodium is an antidiarrheal that will worsen the constipation. An oral fiber supplement and prune juice should be given after the patient has a bowel movement to prevent constipation from recurring.

The Nurse Is Caring for a Patient Who Is Constipated