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

2. 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)

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

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

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

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

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