Which factor would the nurse assess for a client reporting constipation?

Which factor would the nurse assess for a client reporting constipation?

• A. All of the above
• B. Low fiber intake
• C. Inadequate fluid intake
• D. Inactive lifestyle

Answer: (A)

Constipation often arises from several interrelated lifestyle and dietary factors, so a complete assessment should look at fiber intake, fluid intake, and level of physical activity. Fiber adds bulk to stool and helps it move through the colon; not enough fiber can result in smaller, slower-moving stools that are harder to pass. Adequate fluids help keep stool soft and easier to pass; when fluid intake is low, stools become drier and more difficult to evacuate. Regular activity stimulates bowel motility, so a sedentary lifestyle can slow transit and contribute to constipation. Because each factor can contribute on its own and can compound the others, evaluating all three provides the most accurate picture of risk and guides effective care. Other contributors, like certain medications, may also be relevant, but these three are the major modifiable lifestyle factors to assess.

Constipation often arises from several interrelated lifestyle and dietary factors, so a complete assessment should look at fiber intake, fluid intake, and level of physical activity. Fiber adds bulk to stool and helps it move through the colon; not enough fiber can result in smaller, slower-moving stools that are harder to pass. Adequate fluids help keep stool soft and easier to pass; when fluid intake is low, stools become drier and more difficult to evacuate. Regular activity stimulates bowel motility, so a sedentary lifestyle can slow transit and contribute to constipation. Because each factor can contribute on its own and can compound the others, evaluating all three provides the most accurate picture of risk and guides effective care. Other contributors, like certain medications, may also be relevant, but these three are the major modifiable lifestyle factors to assess.