Nursing Care Plan for Constipation
🎓 Educational example. Adapt to your patient and have your instructor review it. Not medical advice.
Infrequent or difficult passage of hard stool. Nursing care addresses bowel patterns, hydration, mobility, and safe elimination.
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Assessment
- Subjective: no bowel movement in 3+ days, straining, abdominal discomfort
- Objective: firm/distended abdomen, hypoactive bowel sounds, hard stool on exam
Nursing diagnoses
As evidenced by: infrequent hard stools, straining, distension
Goals / expected outcomes
- The patient will pass a soft, formed stool within 24–48 hours.
- The patient will describe three strategies to prevent recurrence before discharge.
Nursing interventions & rationale
| Intervention | Rationale |
|---|---|
| Assess bowel pattern, diet, fluids, activity, and medications. | Identifies contributing factors to target the cause. |
| Encourage fluids, fiber, and mobility as tolerated. | Promotes normal peristalsis and stool softening. |
| Administer stool softeners/laxatives as prescribed; consider a bowel regimen with opioids. | Prevents and relieves opioid-induced and other constipation. |
| Provide privacy and a normal toileting position. | Supports the natural urge and effective evacuation. |
Evaluation
- Soft stool passed
- Abdomen softer, bowel sounds normal
- Patient verbalizes prevention plan
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Build a care plan free See Student plan — $6.99/monthNursing diagnoses used in Constipation
Constipation care plan: FAQ
What is the nursing diagnosis for Constipation?
Common nursing diagnoses include: Constipation related to reduced mobility, low fiber/fluid intake, or medication (e.g., opioids). Choose the one your patient's assessment data supports.
What are nursing interventions for Constipation?
Key interventions: Assess bowel pattern, diet, fluids, activity, and medications.; Encourage fluids, fiber, and mobility as tolerated.; Administer stool softeners/laxatives as prescribed; consider a bowel regimen with opioids. — each paired with a rationale.
Can I use this care plan for my assignment?
Use it as a study example and starting draft. Always adapt it to your specific patient and have it reviewed by your instructor. This is an educational tool, not medical advice.
Last reviewed 2026-07. Educational content based on standard nursing practice; not medical advice and not affiliated with NANDA-I/NIC/NOC. Always follow your institution's protocols and your instructor's guidance.