Chapter 47, Problem 3CAQ

Summary Introduction

To determine:

After successful removal of the fecal impaction, what the nurse teach to the person (J) before he is discharged from the emergency department?

Concept introduction:

On his next visit to the patient (J) two days later, the home care nurse (J) found that the patient (J) still had had not had a bowel movement and his blood pressure is 160/92. The patient (J) had tried to increase his intake of vegetables and fruits but he had a very little appetite and he felt mildly nauseous after eating a small meal. Every day the person (J) took laxatives with a stool softener but he reported only small, liquid movements 2 to 3 days. The patient (J) feels the pressure in his rectum that is not relieved when he takes his pain medication. Because of the patient elevated blood pressure, increasing discomfort and his lack of bowel movement for at least 9 days. The home care nurse (J) thinks that the patient (J) should go to the emergency department of his local hospital.