A client starting opioid therapy asks how to prevent constip… | MyMerci
EliminationBCC
Question
A client starting opioid therapy asks how to prevent constipation. Which teaching should the nurse include?
1Limit fluids so the stool becomes smaller.
2Avoid walking because activity increases abdominal pain.
3Use the prescribed bowel regimen and increase fluids, fiber, and activity as tolerated.✓ Correct answer
4Wait until no bowel movement occurs for 2 weeks before reporting it.
Explanation
Opioids commonly slow bowel motility, so prevention includes a prescribed bowel regimen plus fluids, fiber, and activity as tolerated. Fluid restriction, inactivity, and delayed reporting increase constipation risk and may lead to complications.
In-depth explanation
Clinical Judgment Use the client cues, timing, labs, and safety risks to select the response that best fits Opioid constipation prevention.
Memory Tip Match the strongest cue cluster to the safest nursing judgment.
KR vs US NCLEX items reward cue-based priority thinking rather than isolated recall.
Clinical scenario
Clinical Practice Guide For Opioid constipation prevention, compare the complete cue pattern with the client's current stability, ordered data, and expected nursing scope.
Caution Do not choose an action from one isolated cue when the full scenario changes priority or safety.
Key concepts
Opioid Constipation — Reduced bowel motility caused by opioid medications.
Bowel Regimen — A planned set of medications or habits to prevent or treat constipation.
Ambulation — Walking or moving as tolerated to support circulation and bowel function.