The older adult client is discussing complaints of constipation with the clinic nurse. The client tells the nurse, “I take a laxative every day so that I will have a bowel movement every day.” Which...

The older adult client is discussing complaints of constipation with the clinic nurse. The client tells the nurse, “I take a laxative every day so that I will have a bowel movement every day.” Which statement should the nurse respond to first?

1. “Do you have heart problems or diabetes?”

2. “Have you ever had a rash or itching when you took a laxative?”

3. “You should not use laxatives every day.”

4. “Most people don’t have to have bowel movements daily.”