Wisconsin CNA State Exam Vocabulary Practice

What condition involves the inability to eliminate stool or the infrequent, difficult, and often painful elimination of hard dry stool?

1. Congestive heart failure

2. Confidentiality

3. Constipation

4. Constrict

The correct answer is: Constipation

The condition described is constipation. This refers to the difficulty or inability to pass stool, often characterized by infrequent bowel movements and the passage of hard, dry stools. Individuals with constipation may experience discomfort or pain as they try to eliminate waste from their bodies. Understanding this condition is vital in a healthcare context, as it can affect a patient's comfort, digestive health, and overall well-being. Management strategies may include dietary changes, increased fluid intake, and the use of laxatives if necessary. The other options do not relate to issues with bowel elimination. Congestive heart failure involves the heart's inability to pump blood effectively, confidentiality pertains to the ethical obligation to safeguard personal patient information, and constrict generally refers to the act of narrowing or tightening and is not related to bowel function.