The Characteristics of Stool in Crohn's Disease

What characteristic should the nurse assess the stool for after a client with Crohn's disease has a bowel movement?

Final answer: The nurse should assess the stool for loose, watery stool after a client with Crohn's disease has a bowel movement.

Understanding Stool Characteristics in Crohn's Disease

Crohn's disease is a type of inflammatory bowel disease that affects the gastrointestinal tract. When assisting a client with Crohn's disease to ambulate to the bathroom, it is important for the nurse to assess the stool characteristics after a bowel movement.

One of the expected characteristics of stool in Crohn's disease is loose, watery stool. This is due to the inflammation and irritation of the intestines caused by the disease. The presence of loose, watery stool can be a common symptom in individuals with Crohn's disease, along with other symptoms such as abdominal pain, blood in the stool, and weight loss.

By assessing the stool for loose, watery consistency, the nurse can monitor the client's condition and determine the effectiveness of the treatment plan. Understanding the typical characteristics of stool in Crohn's disease is crucial in providing appropriate care and support to clients with this condition.