Question

The nurse is administering a stool softener to a client who experienced a myocardial infarction. The client says, "I had a heart attack; I don't have a problem with constipation." What explanation will the nurse use to answer the client's question?

Answer 1

After a myocardial infarction, a stool softener is given to prevent straining during bowel movements, which can increase blood pressure and heart rate, risking a further cardiac event. It ensures gentle bowel movements to avoid undue stress on a recovering heart.

Step-by-step explanation:

The administration of a stool softener to a client who experienced a myocardial infarction (MI or heart attack) is a preventive measure to avoid straining during bowel movements, which could potentially cause undue stress on the heart. After an MI, it's important to prevent any additional strain on the heart while it is healing. Straining can lead to an increase in blood pressure and heart rate, placing the client at risk for another cardiac event. Therefore, the stool softener is used to ease the process of bowel movements and help maintain a stable condition for the heart.