NURS305 Lecture Notes - Lecture 10: Renal Function, Fecal Incontinence, Ha Jin
13 Dec 2017
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Document Summary
No lateral burges and masses (finding a mass of stool in the lower left quadrant is common) Fecal incontinence or involuntary passage of stool: unexpected. In the older population, peristaltic movements are slowed. Slows the movement of food through the gastrointestinal system. As a result of slowed peristalsis, secretions of gastric acid are increased. Elderly people also have changes in dentition that may affect their ability to chew. This can dramatically alter dietary choices (less protein, more carbohydrates) painful mastication. All these factors along with generally reduced muscle mass and tone may also contribute to constipation. The liver decreases in size and liver function declines, making it harder for older adults to process medications. The number of the hepatocytes and blood flow of the liver is decreased. This therefore decreases the metabolism of medication which puts them at a higher risk for higher levels of circulating medication.
