In educating a patient on medication for constipation, the nurse should emphasize which of the following?

In managing constipation, increasing fluid intake plays a crucial role because fluids help to soften the stool, making it easier to pass. When a patient is educated about medication for constipation, emphasizing fluid intake is vital, as adequate hydration is essential for bowel health. Drinking enough fluids, particularly water, aids in the digestive process and encourages normal bowel movements.

Regular exercise is beneficial for promoting overall gastrointestinal health and can support regularity, but it may not have the immediate effect that increasing fluid intake will have. Increased sugar intake can actually worsen constipation in some individuals, as high sugar consumption can lead to dehydration and exacerbate the problem. Low caffeine consumption is generally a consideration for some patients, but moderate caffeine can sometimes help stimulate bowel movements, making this less relevant in the context of medication for constipation.

Thus, focusing on increased fluid intake provides a straightforward and effective strategy to alleviate constipation, reinforcing the primary goal of easing the passage of stool through hydration.