Question

What is the most effective intervention to prevent constipation in a patient who recently sustained a fractured femur and is currently in traction?

a. Get the patient up and to the bathroom at least twice each day.
b. Administer enemas each day until the patient has a bowel movement.
c. Administer pain medication to prevent pain during defecation.
d. Encourage a high-fiber diet and increased amounts of fluids.

Answer 1

The most effective intervention to prevent constipation in a patient who recently had a fractured femur and is in traction is to encourage a high-fiber diet and increased fluid intake.

Step-by-step explanation:

The most effective intervention to prevent constipation in a patient who recently sustained a fractured femur and is currently in traction is to encourage a high-fiber diet and increased amounts of fluids.

Constipation commonly occurs when there is a lack of fiber in the diet and inadequate fluid intake. By increasing dietary fiber and fluid intake, the patient can promote regular bowel movements and prevent constipation. This can help soften the stools and facilitate easier passage through the intestines.

Implementing interventions such as getting the patient up and to the bathroom, administering enemas daily, or administering pain medication to prevent pain during defecation may not directly address the root cause of constipation in this scenario. These interventions may have other benefits, but they are not specifically targeted at preventing constipation.