[Nursing cares in constipation of the oncology patient].
The importance of constipation lies in its frequency, even among the healthy. The incidence of constipation in oncological patients is 70-80% in the final stage, 40-50% in advanced disease, and 90% in patients with aggressive cancer. This disorder is not only uncomfortable for the patient but also causes complications. Prolonged constipation can cause abdominal pain and even increase the pain caused by the tumor and stronger pain relief can be required when the constipation is unresolved. Among the complications that can occur are intestinal obstruction, diarrhea by spillage, urinary dysfunction, anorexia, nausea and vomiting, restlessness, malaise, and confusion. When analyzing this problem, we aim to unify criteria and nursing interventions, emphasize the importance of prevention, and solve the problem. Health education of both the patient and the main caregiver aid control of this disorder after discharge. The patient will be able to identify the appearance of constipation, its causes and symptoms and will be familiar with the treatment and when and where to go to review it.
Cordero-Ponce
Montserrat
M
Unidad de Cuidados Paliativos Oncológicos, Hospital Duques del Infantado, Hospitales Universitarios Virgen del Rocío, Sevilla, Spain.
Romero-Sánchez
Isabel María
IM
D003248:Constipation / Q000453:epidemiology* / Q000451:nursing*; D004032:Diet; D015444:Exercise; D006801:Humans; D054368:Laxatives / Q000627:therapeutic use; D009369:Neoplasms / Q000453:epidemiology* / Q000628:therapy; D009732:Nursing Care / Q000379:methods*; D010166:Palliative Care; D010353:Patient Education as Topic
D054368:Laxatives