Clinical. Management of constipation.

Constipation refers to difficulty in passing stool, accompanied by excessive straining, or complaint of infrequent bowel movements. Caring for patients who experience constipation is a common aspect of working as a healthcare assistant (HCA) or an assistant practitioner (AP). For some patients, the treatment of constipation is essential to their medical management. It is important for HCAs to know that constipation is often caused by underlying anatomical or functional problems. INSET: Key Points. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]