Many drugs can slow down peristalsis. Antipsychotics, The GP or medical professionals should anticonvulsants, antidepressants, anticholinergics, always advise on any use of laxatives as – hypertension medications, hypnotics, iron and calcium opposed to purchasing the counter’ ‘over supplements can all cause constipation. remedies. Pain relief, including over the counter meds can cause or contribute towards constipation. Some muscle relaxants, Pharmacists are also a good source of help by their nature can also impact and make the digestive and advice! processes less effective. Some medications for saliva control can have an influence on general hydration levels. Assess the person’s toilet Moving your bowels is a private thing. Some people may Ensure privacy, preserve dignity, encourage facilities, including functional find it more difficult if they are anxious or stressed or independence, and reduce any levels of ability to use the toilet, taking embarrassed. stress or embarrassment the person may be into account any postural experiencing. difficulties. Tell me more… Squatting is the best position to open the bowels see the Consider any environmental aids and – attached diagrams of the most effective squatting position adaptions that can be made. on the toilet. Some people may not be able to achieve this position.
Many drugs can slow down peristalsis. Antipsychotics, anticonvulsants, antidepressants, anticholinergics, hypertension medications, hypnotics, iron and calcium supplements can all cause constipation. Pain relief, including over the counter meds can cause or contribute towards constipation. Some muscle relaxants, by their nature can also impact and make the digestive processes less effective. Some medications for saliva control can have an influence on general hydration levels. The GP or medical professionals should always advise on any use of laxatives – as opposed to purchasing ‘over the counter’ remedies. Pharmacists are also a good source of help and advice! Assess the person’s toilet facilities, including functional ability to use the toilet, taking into account any postural difficulties. Moving your bowels is a private thing. Some people may find it more difficult if they are anxious or stressed or embarrassed. Tell me more… Squatting is the best position to open the bowels – see the attached diagrams of the most effective squatting position on the toilet. Some people may not be able to achieve this position. Ensure privacy, preserve dignity, encourage independence, and reduce any levels of stress or embarrassment the person may be experiencing. Consider any environmental aids and adaptions that can be made.
Bowel-Management-Plan-Guide.docx