Question

A nurse is caring for a client at 28 weeks gestation. The client asks what's causing her constipation. Which response should the nurse make?

A. "The growing uterus is putting pressure on your bowels, slowing down digestion."
B. "Hormonal changes are causing your intestines to absorb more water."
C. "Increased blood flow to your pelvic area is affecting bowel motility."
D. "Try eating more fiber-rich foods to help with bowel regularity."

Answer 1

During pregnancy, constipation can be caused by the growing uterus putting pressure on the bowels and slowing down digestion.

Step-by-step explanation:

During pregnancy, constipation can be caused by the growing uterus putting pressure on the bowels, which slows down digestion. This decreased peristalsis, or the movement of food through the digestive tract, is also responsible for pregnancy-related constipation as pregnancy progresses. Therefore, the nurse should respond to the client by selecting option A: 'The growing uterus is putting pressure on your bowels, slowing down digestion.'