Clients with Fecal Elimination Problems Heather Nelson, RN Nursing Diagnoses Clients with Fecal Elimination Problems Heather Nelson, RN

Constipation Related to: Inadequate fiber in diet Immobility or inadequate physical activity Inadequate fluid intake Pain on defecation Change in routine (e.g., diet intake) Abuse of laxatives Delaying defecation when urge is present Use of prescribed constipating medications (e.g., narcotic analgesic, iron, antacid, and anticholinergic)

Perceived constipation Related to: Altered thought processes Family health beliefs Knowledge deficit about normal processes

Bowel incontinence Related to: Diarrhea Fecal impaction Central nervous system disruption (e.g., stroke) Cognitive/perceptual impairment Demyelinating disease Extreme debilitation

Diarrhea Related to: Dietary alteration Stress/anxiety Inflammation or irritation of bowel Drug side-effects Spoiled food Tube feeding Allergy

Potential fluid volume deficit Related to: Diarrhea Abnormal fluid loss through ostomy

Potential impaired skin integrity Related to: Prolonged diarrhea Bowel incontinence Bowel diversion ostomy