Experiences of nursing staff in Swiss-German nursing homes with constipation management: A qualitative-descriptive study

Despite existing guidelines for constipation management, constipation remains a prevalent issue among older individuals in long-term care facilities. The aim of this qualitative study was to provide an overview of nursing constipation management and the associated challenges in Swiss-German nursing homes. From September to December 2022, 51 nursing staff from 20 nursing homes were surveyed online, using literature-based open questions. Using a content analysis approach, four categories were identified in relation to constipation management: Assessment of Constipation and Risks; Prevention and treatment process; Challenges and influencing factors; Impact of constipation. Data analysis revealed that nurses perceive the management of constipation to be extremely challenging, highlighting difficulties arising from limited resources, expertise, few physician visits, and prioritization demands of daily practice. Successful constipation management requires regular training of nursing staff to raise awareness of existing guidelines and screening tools, as well as the optimization of structural conditions for implementation.