Patient Education

Nurses also responsible for teaching patient about preventing and managing medical
conditions. By relaying information, nurses help patient take control of their health care.

1. Tell patient to eat small, frequent meals and to consume foods that normally
cause constipation and are easy to digest.
Bland, starchy foods are initially recommended when starting to eat solid food
again.

2. Educate the patient or caregiver about the following dietary measures to control
diarrhea:

Avoid spicy, fatty foods, alcohol, and caffeine. Broil, bake, or boil foods; avoid
frying. Avoid foods that are disagreeable.
Because these dietary changes can slow the passage of stool through the colon and
reduce or eliminate diarrhea.

3. Tell the patient to communicate with caregiver if diarrhea occurs with

prescription drugs. Which should be reported immediately to prevent worsening
of diarrhea

4. Teach patient or caregiver the proper use of antidiarrheal medications as ordered.

Because Appropriate use of antidiarrheal medications can promote effective
bowel elimination.

5. Discuss to the patient or to the SO the importance of fluid replacement during

diarrheal episodes because fluid intake is necessary to prevent dehydration.

6. Teach to patient the importance of good perianal hygiene. Because proper

hygiene reduces the risk of perianal excoriation and promotes comfort.

7. Educate patient and SO on how to prepare food properly and the importance of
good food sanitation practices and handwashing. Because these could prevent
outbreaks and spread of infectious diseases transmitted through fecal-oral route.

8. Provide emotional support for patients who are having trouble controlling
unpredictable episodes of diarrhea. Because diarrhea can be a great source of
embarrassment to the elderly and can lead to social isolation and a feeling
of powerlessness.