Tackling Constipation: New Guidelines Yield Positive Results in Nursing Homes
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Constipation, a common and often debilitating condition, significantly impacts the quality of life for many nursing home residents. A recent initiative, however, is showing promising results. A new guideline developed in collaboration with healthcare professionals is revolutionizing how constipation is managed in long-term care facilities, leading to improved resident well-being.
The problem is widespread.Up to 80% of nursing home residents experience constipation at some point, and the rate is even higher among those with intellectual disabilities, affecting 7 out of 10 in institutional settings. This highlights the urgent need for effective and compassionate solutions.
Marleen Vingerhoed, a wound nurse who piloted the new guideline at the Leyhoeve residential care center, shared her experience: “We immediatly started working on the advice. Our residents are now doing much better.” Her observations underscore the immediate positive impact of the updated approach.
The guideline emphasizes a holistic approach, focusing on lifestyle changes as a first line of defense. Vingerhoed explains, “it seems simple to look at lifestyle, but it turns out to be very crucial. We have now set up an exercise hour with the physiotherapist. We no longer place residents who have difficulty walking in a wheelchair. They’ll get there eventually. Employees help residents in the department to exercise more. Instead of immediately asking the doctor for the standard fiber drink movicolone in case of constipation, we now first consult with the dietician about nutrition.”
A Critical Look at Medication
The guideline also encourages a critical review of medication. Vingerhoed notes,“A realy good tip in the guideline. The soothing medications such as lorazepam and risperidone also literally give the intestines rest. Then they don’t work properly. And although we are very cautious about using tranquilizers for people with dementia, in many cases it turned out to be somewhat less effective when we took a critical look.” This highlights the importance of considering potential medication side effects in the context of constipation.
Simple measures like ensuring adequate hydration also play a crucial role. “That’s why we offer coffee, tea and water all day long. People also drink a lot of apple juice, the elderly like it sweet,” Vingerhoed explains. These small changes can make a meaningful difference in overall bowel health.
The results speak for themselves. Vingerhoed concludes, “They are less restless and seem to be in less pain. We healthcare professionals also speak to each other if we think things can be improved using the tips from the guideline. And our knowledge is better now. So I was really convinced that bananas have a stopping effect,” she concludes with a laugh.
This success story demonstrates the potential for significant enhancement in the lives of nursing home residents through a comprehensive and proactive approach to constipation management. The new guideline offers a beacon of hope,promising a more agreeable and healthier future for vulnerable populations.
Tackling Constipation: New Guidelines Yield Positive Results in Nursing Homes
Constipation, a common and frequently enough debilitating condition, considerably impacts the quality of life for many nursing home residents. A recent initiative,though,is showing promising results. A new guideline developed in collaboration with healthcare professionals is revolutionizing how constipation is managed in long-term care facilities, leading to improved resident well-being.
A Conversation with Dr. Emily Carter, Geriatric Specialist
Senior Editor: Dr. carter, thank you for joining us today to discuss this crucial issue. Can you tell us more about the scope of the constipation problem in nursing homes?
Dr. Emily Carter: Absolutely.Constipation is incredibly prevalent in nursing homes, affecting up to 80% of residents at some point. It’s even more common among those with intellectual disabilities, with rates as high as 70%. This underscores the urgent need for effective and compassionate solutions.
Lifestyle First: A Holistic Approach
Senior Editor: This new guideline emphasizes a holistic approach. Can you elaborate on what that means in practice?
Dr. Emily carter: Exactly. The guideline moves away from solely relying on medication and rather focuses on lifestyle modifications as the first line of defense.We’re talking about things like regular exercise, tailored to individual abilities, proper hydration, and dietary adjustments under the guidance of a dietician. these seemingly small changes can have a profound impact.
Re-evaluating Medication
Senior editor: The guideline also encourages a critical review of medications. Why is that important?
Dr.Emily Carter: Some medications, such as antipsychotics, can unluckily have constipation as a side effect. The guideline encourages healthcare providers to consider these potential side effects and explore alternatives or dosage adjustments when appropriate.
Simple Solutions, Big Impact
Senior Editor: What are some of the simple changes that have made a big difference in your experience?
Dr. Emily Carter: Ensuring residents have easy access to fluids throughout the day is crucial. Offering a variety of beverages like water, tea, and even juice can encourage hydration. We’ve also found that structured exercise programs, even gentle activities, can be incredibly beneficial.
A Brighter Outlook
Senior Editor: What are the most encouraging outcomes you’ve seen since implementing this new guideline?
Dr. Emily Carter: It’s truly heartening to see residents experience less discomfort and restlessness. They seem to be in less pain, and their overall quality of life has improved. it’s a wonderful reminder that these seemingly simple changes can make a world of difference for vulnerable populations.