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The measures to evaluate constipation: a review article.

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  • 1Kira Izumi, MN, RN, PHN, is Assistant Professor, Oita University, Faculty of Medicine, School of Nursing, Fundamental Nursing Science, Hasama-machi, Yufu-shi, Oita, Japan.

Gastroenterology Nursing : the Official Journal of the Society of Gastroenterology Nurses and Associates
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PubMed
Summary
This summary is machine-generated.

This review identified and evaluated constipation assessment scales, finding the Patient-Assessment of Constipation Symptoms scale and Constipation Assessment Scale most suitable for measuring constipation severity.

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Area of Science:

  • Gastroenterology
  • Clinical Measurement
  • Health Outcomes Research

Background:

  • Constipation is a common condition requiring effective assessment tools.
  • Existing constipation assessment scales vary in their measurement criteria and focus.
  • Standardized and validated scales are crucial for accurate diagnosis and treatment.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review current constipation assessment scales.
  • To clarify the nature of measurements and criteria within these scales.
  • To identify reliable and valid scales for measuring constipation severity.

Main Methods:

  • A comprehensive literature review was conducted from inception to 2011.
  • Databases searched included PubMed, CINHAL, Cochrane, and MEDLINE.
  • Keywords used were: constipation, scale, measurement, questionnaire, and assessment.

Main Results:

  • Eight constipation assessment scales were reviewed.
  • All reviewed scales measured constipation subjectively.
  • Measurement criteria were categorized into 5 domains: defecation difficulties, abdominal symptoms, emotional effects, self-treatment, and individual characteristics.

Conclusions:

  • The Patient-Assessment of Constipation Symptoms scale and the Constipation Assessment Scale are recommended.
  • These scales are reliable, valid, and suitable for measuring constipation severity.
  • These scales provide a comprehensive subjective assessment of constipation.