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Diarrhea and fecal impaction in elderly long-stay patients

O Kinnunen1, P Jauhonen, J Salokannel

  • 1University of Oulu, Department of Public Health Science.

Zeitschrift Fur Gerontologie
|November 1, 1989
PubMed

Insights

Fecal impaction is the primary cause of prolonged diarrhea in hospitalized geriatric patients, affecting over half of cases. Prompt constipation management is crucial, particularly for immobile patients with fecal incontinence.

Area of Science:

  • Geriatrics
  • Gastroenterology
  • Internal Medicine

Background:

  • Prolonged diarrhea is a common issue in geriatric patients.
  • Understanding the underlying causes is essential for effective management in long-term care settings.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine the frequency and common causes of prolonged diarrhea (≥3 days) in hospitalized geriatric patients.
  • To identify associated factors and complications related to diarrhea in this population.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective screening of 245 permanently hospitalized geriatric patients over one year.
  • Analysis of patient records to identify episodes of diarrhea and their potential causes.

Main Results:

  • 65/245 (26%) patients experienced prolonged diarrhea, with 32% having recurrent episodes.
  • Fecal impaction was the most frequent cause (55%), followed by laxative use (20%) and gastrointestinal infections (5%).
  • Immobility and fecal incontinence were significantly associated with fecal impaction; urinary tract infections were more common in patients with fecal impaction and diarrhea.

Conclusions:

  • Constipation, particularly fecal impaction, is a leading cause of prolonged diarrhea in hospitalized geriatric patients.
  • Early recognition and treatment of constipation are vital, especially for immobile elderly individuals with incontinence and diarrhea.
  • Diarrhea management in geriatric patients requires a comprehensive approach addressing underlying causes like constipation.

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