SN instructed patient to increase fluid intake after discharge for constipation due to anesthesia and pain medication. Patient may also try warm prune juice, stool softener (Senokot) or magnesium citrate.
SN instructed patient/ CG about laxatives. Laxatives should be taken as ordered. Drink plenty of fluids. Overuse of laxatives can cause constipation.
SN instructed that infrequent passage of hard, dry stool, low back pain, abdominal fullness and/or abdominal discomfort, decreased appetite, nausea and/or vomiting, and rectal pressure may constitute as signs/symptoms of constipation. Patient verbalized understanding.
SN instructed patient and caregiver on measures to prevent constipation: increasing fluids (prefer approx. 8 glasses of water daily) eating a diet high in fiber, and avoiding foods with sugars (pasta, pastries, cheese, rice, etc.), exercise regularly at a slow, steady pace, as directed by md if you are able. Both parties verbalized understanding.
SN instructed patient and caregiver on some measures aimed to controlling/managing constipation, such as: establish regular times for evacuations usually after a meal and drink a warm liquid one-half hour before breakfast to stimulate bowel movement, avoid laxative and enema abuse. Instructed on some potential complications of constipation, such as: stool impaction bowel blockage, liquid bowel movement may ooze around hard stool in the colon, pain, valsalva maneuver may be caused by straining, causing a slowed pulse, decreased blood return and increased venous pressure, rectal bleeding and rectal pain.