Question

Support for Our Patients with Elimination Challenges

Hi class,

There are different ways through which elimination complexities can manifest which include defecation changes such as bowel elimination complications, constipation, and urine elimination impairments such as polyuria, suppression, nocturia, and urine incontinence. Patients can develop elimination complexities due to factors such as dehydration, psychological issues, and anatomical structure disorders, amongst many others. Elderly individuals are more exposed to elimination complexities caused by diminished bladder contractions and capacity.

As nurses, educators, patient advocates - how can we assist our patients through these challenges?

Answer 1

As a nurse we can assist our patients through these challenges by the following :-

- Monitor and assist clients with elimination

- Promote regular elimination by attending to:

-privacy

-timing

-nutrition and fluids

-exercise

-positioning

- teach patients about bodily fluids

- work collaboratively with healthcare team to facilitate normal urinary and bowel function

#. promoting regular elimination by attending to privacy

give patient as much privacy as possible so they can feel comfortable

#. promoting regular elimination by attending to timing

when rushed, patients may feel stressed won't be able to go effectively

#. promoting regular elimination by attending to nutrition and fluids

hydration and appropriate foods (fiber) can help w/ elimination

#. promoting regular elimination by attending to exercise

vigorous exercise can help w/ pooping but can also make you less likely to pee

#. promoting regular elimination by attending to positioning

atleast Semi-fowler's position, squatting position is best