What's With the "Poop"?

Specialties Geriatric

Published

Specializes in LTC.

Every day, without fail, a resident's family member comes to me at 5:05 p.m. (give or take a minute or 2) to tell me "Well, Daddy says he has to poop!" This after she strolls past the dining room full of resident's patiently waiting for their trays, while some are already eating. My CNA's are busily unloading the meal cart and some are prepping plates. All CNA's are occupied with meal time, as are both of us nurses. I have been witness to this lady literally arguing with her "Daddy" that he had to "poop", while he was protesting that he in fact did not, have to "poop". We have in the past, and on many occasions assisted this gentleman to the toilet with little to no result. I really get the feeling that the rare, extra extra small result he has produced is out of sheer will to appease his loved one. BUT IT'S ALWAYS AT DINNER. She is usually there at least an hour before meal service, and there's nary a word about him needing to move his bowels. As soon as the first plate hits the table she suddenly, and predicably, (if not gleefully) appears to announce, well, y'know. What gives? What's with the "poop"?

Specializes in Hospice, LTC, Rehab, Home Health.

Perhaps in the past when they lived together in the same home, either hers or the family home, dear old Dad used the bathroom just before dinner (or maybe she just has a bowel fixation). Either way, I would have the CNA take him to the BR on the way to the dining room since daughter is there an hour before that should take care of the problem. If he doesn't want to "try" before dinner, have the CNA remind him that this way he'll get to eat a hot meal.

Specializes in Geriatric Psychiatry.

Well I believe the correct diagnosis is BOB. Bowl on the Brain. I am attempting to get this diagnosis into the next DSM. Lol. Goodluck with the poo!!

Specializes in Clinical Research, Outpt Women's Health.

Preemptive strike. Toilet him 30 minutes before dinner and then if she asks during tell her as soon as residents are fed.

I would care plan it to toilet before dinner. That way if she asks, say "we just took him at 4:45." Also if she is a daily visitor maybe find something for her to do besides visiting her dad. Maybe she could do a craft with the residents or something?

Specializes in CCU, SICU, CVSICU, Precepting & Teaching.
Well I believe the correct diagnosis is BOB. Bowl on the Brain. I am attempting to get this diagnosis into the next DSM. Lol. Goodluck with the poo!!

If he had Bowl on brain, one would think he'd try to get to his dinner before it got cold. I'm thinking he maybe has Bowel on Brain -- or the daughter does.

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