Exploring the causes, assessment and management of constipation in palliative care.
Constipation is one of the most common problems in patients receiving palliative care, often having a profound effect on their quality of life. Its management has a significant impact on healthcare provision in terms of cost and nursing time. Nurses are well placed to assess and manage constipation and this article seeks to aid in the decision-making process. The causes, assessment and management of constipation, from prophylaxis to new pharmacological developments, will be explored in a pragmatic approach.
Brown
Elizabeth
E
Palliative Medicine, St Michael's Hospice, Harrogate, England, UK. lbrown@saintmichaelshospice.org
Henderson
Amanda
A
McDonagh
Aislinn
A
D003248:Constipation / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000209:etiology / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000628:therapy; D006801:Humans; D010166:Palliative Care