Constipation

Nursing Diagnosis Definition

The nursing diagnosis for constipation is defined as "infrequent or difficult passage of stool, associated with at least one of the following: abdominal discomfort, cramping, distention, or feeling of incomplete evacuation." This diagnosis is applicable when a patient experiences symptoms of constipation, indicating a need for interventions to address the condition.

Defining Characteristics

Subjective

• Patient reports infrequent bowel movements: Subjective complaint of a decrease in the frequency of bowel movements.
• Patient reports difficulty passing stools: Subjective indication of challenges in the process of passing stools.
• Patient reports hard and dry stools: Subjective observation of the consistency of stools.
• Patient reports abdominal discomfort, cramping, distention, or feeling of incomplete evacuation: Subjective complaints related to abdominal sensations and incomplete evacuation.

Objective

• Patient has infrequent bowel movements (less than 3 per week): Objective measurement of a reduced frequency of bowel movements.
• Patient reports difficulty passing stools or hard and dry stools: Objective observation and patient report of challenges in stool passage or the consistency of stools.
• Patient has abdominal discomfort, cramping, distention, or feeling of incomplete evacuation: Objective signs of abdominal discomfort or incomplete evacuation.

Related Factors

• Insufficient fluid intake: Reduced intake of liquids affecting stool consistency and bowel movements.
• Insufficient fiber intake: Low consumption of fiber impacting stool bulk and bowel regularity.
• Physical inactivity: Lack of movement influencing bowel motility.
• Certain medications (such as opioids, antidepressants, and antacids): Pharmaceutical agents contributing to constipation.
• Certain medical conditions (such as hypothyroidism, diabetes, and IBS): Underlying health issues affecting bowel function.
• Aging: Age-related changes influencing bowel habits.

Risk Population

• Individuals who have insufficient fluid and fiber intake, physical inactivity, certain medications, certain medical conditions, or are aging are at risk for developing constipation. Additionally, lifestyle factors and aging contribute to the risk of constipation.

Associated Problems

• Constipation can lead to a variety of health problems, including:
• Hemorrhoids: Swollen veins in the rectum and anus caused by straining during bowel movements.
• Fecal impaction: Hardened stool that cannot be evacuated, leading to a blockage in the intestines.
• Anal fissures: Small tears in the lining of the anus, often caused by passing hard stools.
• Rectal prolapse: The rectum protrudes through the anus due to weakened supporting tissues.
• Dehydration: Reduced fluid content in the body, often associated with constipation.

Suggestions for Use

• Assess the patient's current bowel habits and any related symptoms: Conduct a comprehensive evaluation of the patient's bowel patterns and associated symptoms.
• Identify any potential contributing factors, such as medications, medical conditions, and lifestyle habits: Investigate underlying causes that may be contributing to constipation.
• Implement interventions to alleviate constipation, such as increasing fluid and fiber intake, promoting physical activity, and/or adjusting medications: Apply strategies to relieve constipation, including dietary modifications, exercise promotion, and medication adjustments.
• Monitor the patient's response to interventions and adjust as needed: Continuously assess the effectiveness of interventions and make necessary modifications.
• Provide education and resources to the patient about preventing constipation and maintaining regular bowel habits: Educate patients on preventive measures and the importance of regular bowel habits.
• Consider referral to a healthcare provider for further evaluation and management if necessary: Involve healthcare professionals for additional assessment and intervention as required.

Suggested Alternative NANDA Diagn

• Impaired Fecal Elimination: Challenges in the removal of bowel contents, leading to constipation or other bowel-related issues.
• Risk for Constipation: Vulnerability to the development of constipation due to various factors.
• Risk for Ineffective Defecation: Increased susceptibility to ineffective bowel evacuation.

Usage Tips

• Be aware of the patient's current bowel habits and any related symptoms: Stay informed about the patient's bowel patterns and associated signs and symptoms.
• Identify and address any potential contributing factors, such as medications, medical conditions, and lifestyle habits: Investigate and manage factors that may be influencing constipation.
• Implement interventions to alleviate constipation and monitor the patient's response: Apply strategies to relieve constipation, and closely observe the patient's reactions to the interventions.
• Provide education and resources to the patient about preventing constipation and maintaining regular bowel habits: Offer guidance on preventive measures and the importance of regular bowel habits.

NOC Results

• Bowel elimination: Continuous monitoring of the patient's bowel elimination patterns will be performed, with interventions implemented to alleviate constipation.
• Fluid balance: The patient's fluid intake will be monitored, and interventions will be implemented to ensure adequate hydration and promote regular bowel movements.
• Skin integrity: The patient's skin will be monitored for integrity and to ensure that it is not compromised due to constipation.
• Comfort: The patient's comfort will be monitored, and interventions will be implemented to alleviate any discomfort related to constipation.
• Nutrition: The patient's nutrient intake will be monitored, and interventions will be implemented to ensure adequate intake of fiber and other nutrients that promote regular bowel movements.

NIC Interventions

• Fiber therapy: The patient will be provided with a high-fiber diet or supplements to promote regular bowel movements.
• Fluid therapy: The patient will be encouraged to increase fluid intake to promote regular bowel movements.
• Stimulant laxative therapy: The patient may be given a stimulant laxative to promote regular bowel movements.
• Bowel training: The patient will be trained on the proper techniques for promoting regular bowel movements, such as the use of a toilet schedule.
• Comfort measures: Comfort measures, such as heat therapy, will be implemented to alleviate any discomfort related to constipation.