Constipation in older people: a clinical review for advanced nurse practitioners

Abstract

Advanced nurse practitioners (ANP) are autonomous practitioners who are required to manage clinical care in partnership with patients, families and carers. This requires analysis and synthesis using evidence to undertake complex decision-making. This clinical review will examine the issue of constipation, with particular emphasis on the older patient group. The aetiology and epidemiology of constipation will be examined, the pathophysiological manifestation considered and the diagnosis and management within this population analysed. In doing so the evidence base will be critiqued to ensure autonomous, safe management of this condition.