A client is experiencing straining at stool with the production of hard stools. The nurse realizes this client might be diagnosed with constipation if the client also has:

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

According to the Rome IV criteria, constipation is defined as the presence of two or more of the following symptoms for at least 12 weeks (not necessarily consecutive) in the preceding 12 months: straining, lumpy or hard stools, sensation of incomplete evacuation, sensation of anorectal obstruction/blockage, manual maneuvers to facilitate defecation, fewer than three bowel movements per week, and/or loose stools are rarely present without the use of laxatives. Therefore, the client in the question might be diagnosed with constipation if they have fewer than three bowel movements per week in addition to straining at stool with the production of hard stools.

A Client Is Experiencing Straining at Stool with the Production