Researching the management of constipation in long-term care: Part 1

The management of constipation is a problem in any healthcare setting, for a variety of reasons. These include the lack of a unified definition of constipation, differences in bowel habit between individuals, the lack of literature on assessment of constipation and nursing research into the condition, and the numerous risk factors. A good knowledge and understanding of these factors, which can help not only in dealing with constipation, but also in preventing it and maintaining the individual's comfort and health, is essential. This two-part article describes a research study carried out in nine care homes, among patients of various ages with a variety of chronic conditions. The aim of the study was to investigate and improve bowel care in long-term care settings. Part 1 presents the background to the study, including the definition, causes, risk assessment and management of constipation, which focuses on the role of health education and the use of laxatives. The main part of the study and implications for practice will be presented in part 2.