A client is caring for her daughter, who recently suffered multiple fr

A client is caring for her daughter, who recently suffered multiple fractures in an automobile ac-cident. The client tells the home care nurse that she has been “really down since all this hap-pened.”

She adds that she has been constipated and not really interested in eating. Which of the follow-ing statements by the nurse focuses on the most likely cause of the gastrointestinal problem?
1. “Actually, how long have you been constipated?”
2. “Are you eating fiber-rich foods like fruit and whole grains?”
3. “You may be depressed; emotional depression can cause constipation.”
4. “I suggest you get some over-the-counter mild laxative and see if that helps.”

ANSWER

ANS: 3
If a person becomes depressed, the autonomic nervous system slows impulses, and peristalsis de-creases, resulting in constipation. Although the other options are not incorrect, they are not the most likely cause for this particular client.