Assessment and treatment of older patients with constipation.
This article examines the experiences of an older patient with constipation to illustrate the importance of thorough assessment. The interaction between another medical condition and constipation is discussed, and indications for laxative use are outlined. The current evidence base for bowel care is limited. Tools for risk assessment are required and further research is needed to improve patient care in this area.
Kyle
Gaye
G
Faculty of Health and Human Science, Thames Valley University, Slough, Berkshire. gaye.kyle@tvu.ac.uk
D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D003248:Constipation / Q000517:prevention & control*; D005260:Female; D005851:Geriatric Nursing; D006801:Humans; D013488:Suppositories
D013488:Suppositories