Which guideline should nursing assistants follow when assisting with bowel retraining?

Encouraging residents to drink plenty of fluids is essential for successful bowel retraining. Adequate hydration helps maintain soft stools, which can prevent constipation and promote regular bowel movements. Fluid intake is a crucial component in establishing a routine and making it easier for residents to manage their bowel habits effectively. Staying hydrated can assist in the natural process of digestion and elimination, thereby supporting the goals of bowel retraining.

In contrast, wearing gloves when handling bodily fluids is a basic infection control practice to protect both the nursing assistant and the resident. Maintaining privacy during elimination is also important for the dignity and comfort of the resident, regardless of their location. Lastly, while it is important to monitor the length of time a resident is taking to have a bowel movement, it is not appropriate for nursing assistants to rush residents or suggest they are taking too long. Such comments can cause anxiety and interfere with the natural process of elimination.