Question

Clinical Scenarios, Digestion and Bowel Elimination

Beethoven Johnson is 81 years old. He came into see his physician today with reports of abdominal discomfort. He leads a sedentary lifestyle, which he believes contributes to his frequent constipation. Beethoven and his wife live at home. They cook their own meals and are very independent. Beethoven states that he has been enduring this pain for the past 5 days. The doctor asks the nurse to get a complete history on Beethoven to gain an understanding of what could be occurring.

1)You are asked to get information in regard to Beethoven’s diet and eating patterns. What questions would you ask him?
2)What symptoms could you observe, completing an assessment? Why might Beethoven display these symptoms?
3)After you completed your assessment,what steps should have Beethoven take?
4)What information should you provide him about constipation?

Answer 1

1: Since the patient is suffering from the pain for the past five days, we need to look into a detailed history. Ask the client about his appetite, any change in diet habit, any incidents of diarrhea, vomiting or nausea. Get his routine diet plan. Need to check whether his diet plan includes enough fiber-rich diet and water.

It is also important to his past medical histories such as cancer and irritable bowel syndrome. Also, need to know that whether he is on any regular medications which can disturb the normal bowel pattern.

2: We need to assess his abdomen for any flatulence, or distension. These symptoms can be due to constipation. In addition, we can observe the decreased bowel movement sound during auscultation. The subjective symptoms can be stomach ache and cramps. The client also may experience loss of appetite and nausea.

3: Beethoven should try to include more water and fiber in his diet. He can consult the doctor for medications to get rid of his symptoms and proper treatment of his constipation after a thorough history taking by the nurse.

4: Advise him to include at least 8 glass of water in his daily diet plan. Educate him about the importance of fiber-rich food intake. Include more fruits and raw vegetables in his diet.dvise him to get involved in activities as much as possible. Some people may experience constipation if they take more dairy products. ask him to watch on this reason. Let him know that any changes in eating time also can cause constipation.