What it means
Stool moves slowly through the colon, so more water is taken out of it and it becomes hard and dry. A common rule is fewer than three bowel movements a week, but what matters is the change from the person's normal pattern. Causes include little fiber or fluid, not moving, holding back the urge, and drugs, especially opioids.
For the nurse
Ask when the last bowel movement was and what is normal for the client. Encourage fluids, fiber and walking, and offer the toilet at regular times. Clients taking opioids usually need a bowel plan with a stool softener or laxativeLAK-suh-tivA drug that loosens stool or helps the bowels move, used to treat or prevent constipation.Full entry .
In a chart
"No bowel movement for 4 days; abdomen firm, bowel sounds hypoactive; senna given per order."
At a glance
| Spanish | estreñimiento |
|---|---|
| Also written | constipated |
Related terms
opioid analgesic
A strong drug that relieves moderate to severe pain by acting on the brain and spinal cord.
diarrhea
Loose or watery stools, usually three or more times a day or more often than normal for the person.
gastrointestinal
Having to do with the stomach and intestines, or with the whole digestive tract from the mouth to the anus.
laxative
A drug that loosens stool or helps the bowels move, used to treat or prevent constipation.