Constipation in Stroke patients - Research Proposal Example

Download file to see previous pages... From this research it is clear that in the current clinical practice, chronic constipation is a frequent outcome secondary to cerebral-vascular accident leading to impaction and overflow incontinence in stroke patients. It remains poorly understood leading to complications including haemorrhoids, faecal impaction, urinary incontinence, ladder outlet, obstruction, urinary tract infection, rectal bleeding, general weakness, and psychological disorders. Constipation has cost implication in terms of hospitalisation, medications, containment, equipment and nursing time. It was observed in the clinical setting that stroke took priority and constipation was overlooked and not considered until patients developed symptoms causing confusion, distress and restlessness. Measures were not taken until patients became constipated and this had an impact on the quality of life and prolonged the hospital stay. Unfortunately constipation is often seen as less important than other conditions in general practice because it is not within an agreed management target. Patients were not assessed and an accurate history of the bowel pattern prior to admission was not obtained or established. Assessment of constipation continues to be poor, compared to other symptoms being rated as a higher priority. A full continence assessment undertaken by a competent health care professional will help to identify patient’s problem. It is important to take a good history in order to identify pertinent information which might not be apparent in a physical examination. Prevention is bette ...Download file to see next pagesRead More