Final answer:
The best goal for a nursing diagnosis of "Risk for constipation" in a patient receiving narcotic pain medication in the oncology unit is to maintain regular bowel movements. This is a direct, measurable outcome that addresses the issue of potential constipation caused by narcotics.
Step-by-step explanation:
The nursing diagnosis "Risk for constipation related to potential adverse effects of narcotic analgesic agents" for a 14-year-old in the oncology unit outlines a common side effect of narcotic pain medications, which are often administered to manage intense pain in cancer patients. Narcotics, especially in higher doses, can indeed lead to drowsiness and reduced bowel movement frequency, potentially causing constipation.
Considering the given options, the best goal for the care plan would be Option 3: c) Maintain regular bowel movements. This goal directly addresses the potential issue of constipation and is a clear, measurable outcome. While increasing fluid intake and administering laxatives regularly can support this goal, they are more strategies or interventions rather than goals themselves. Monitoring vital signs, although crucial in patient care, is not directly related to preventing constipation.
Thus, establishing and promoting routines that encourage regular bowel movements, including assessing the patient's normal bowel patterns, implementing dietary changes, fluid intake, and physical activity as tolerated, would be the most comprehensive approach to preventing constipation in this patient.