NURSING DIAGNOSIS: Constipation/Diarrhea, risk for
Risk factors may include
- Physical factors: abdominal surgery, with manipulation of bowel, weakening of abdominal musculature
- Pain/discomfort in abdomen or perineal area
- Changes in dietary intake
Possibly evidenced by
- [Not applicable; presence of signs and symptoms establishes an actual diagnosis.]
Desired Outcomes
Bowel Elimination (NOC)
- Display active bowel sounds/peristaltic activity.
- Maintain usual pattern of elimination.
6 Hysterectomy Nursing Care Plan (NCP)
- Low Self-Esteem — Hysterectomy Nursing Care Plan (NCP)
- Impaired Urinary Elimination — Hysterectomy Nursing Care Plan (NCP)
- Constipation/Diarrhea — Hysterectomy Nursing Care Plan (NCP)
- Ineffective Tissue Perfusion — Hysterectomy Nursing Care Plan (NCP)
- Sexual Dysfunction — Hysterectomy Nursing Care Plan (NCP)
- Knowledge Deficit — Hysterectomy Nursing Care Plan (NCP)
Constipation/Diarrhea — Hysterectomy Nursing Care Plan (NCP): Nursing Interventions & Rationale
| Nursing Interventions | Rationale |
| Auscultate bowel sounds. Note abdominal distension, presence of nausea/vomiting. | Indicators of presence/resolution of ileus, affecting choice of interventions. |
| Assist patient with sitting on edge of bed and walking. | Early ambulation helps stimulate intestinal function and return of peristalsis. |
| Encourage adequate fluid intake, including fruit juices, when oral intake is resumed. | Promotes softer stool; may aid in stimulating peristalsis. |
| Provide sitz baths. | Promotes muscle relaxation, minimizes discomfort. |
| Restrict oral intake as indicated. | Prevents nausea/vomiting until peristalsis returns (1–2 days). |
| Maintain nasogastric (NG) tube, if present. | May be inserted in surgery to decompress stomach. |
| Provide clear/full liquids and advance to solid foods as tolerated. | When peristalsis begins, food and fluid intake promote resumption of normal bowel elimination. |
| Use rectal tube; apply heat to the abdomen, if appropriate. | Promotes the passage of flatus. |
| Administer medications, e.g., stool softeners, mineral oil, laxatives, as indicated. | Promotes formation/passage of softer stool. |