Oh My Stomach: Constipation Management

Author

Zoë Collette, The University of Texas at El Paso

Date of Award

5-2020

Degree Type

DNP Project

Degree Name

Doctor of Nursing (ND)

Department

Nursing

Chair

Hector Morales

Abstract

Introduction: The purpose of this quality improvement project, as an adult gerontology/acute care nurse practitioner (AGACNP) working in a mental health hospital, was to provide the best intervention for those who are suffering from constipation. Previously, I was treating patients with Colace 100 mg Po BID, and now, various literature reviews proved that polyethylene glycol 3500 (PEG 3500) was a more effective treatment option. The goal of the PEG treatment was to help with the ease of a bowel movement within 24-48 hours. The project was conducted at Behavioral Hospital of Bellaire, a mental health hospital in Houston, Texas. A total of 12 patients met criteria for the project and were all prescribed PEG 3500 mg. Method: Focused gastrointestinal assessment was used to assess the effectiveness of PEG 3500 mg on 12 patients who complained of constipation. The patients were treated with PEG 3500 mg Po Daily for 7 days. When prescribed PEG treatments, patients were expected to have relief within 24-48 hours. Polyethylene glycol (PEG) is recommended as the first-line laxative for maintenance treatment in individuals. Results: Eight of the patients had reported relief while using PEG 3500 mg, and four needed additional support to help with the ease of bowel movement. Discussion: PEG 3500 mg was easily assessable and acceptable by the patients, and they had relief from constipation.

Recommended Citation

Collette, Zoë, "Oh My Stomach: Constipation Management" (2020). Cohort VIII. 4.
https://scholarworks.utep.edu/cohort_8/4