An 82-year-old patient is having trouble maintaining regular bowel movements. The nurse is providing instruction and tells the patient to avoid:

Explanation

• Older adults should not use mineral oil due to the risk of decreased absorption of fat-soluble vitamins.

• Fiber, water, and exercise should be encouraged to help maintain regular bowel movements.

• Bulk-forming laxatives are the drug of choice for long-term management of constipation, especially in older adults, due to the low side effect profile.

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