Overview

Constipation is a common yet often overlooked issue affecting older adults in residential care facilities. It is not only a source of physical discomfort but also a condition that can significantly impact residents' physical, mental health and quality of life. 

Anatomy, Causes and Treatments

The course will provide an overview of anatomy, causes, symptoms, and complications of constipation. It will also present recommended screening that may suggest constipation, so appropriate action can be taken. It will also discuss various treatments that providers may order.

Regulatory Highlights and Best Practices

The course will also provide an overview of Title 22 elements as related to bowel care; and also present best practices for care facilities. While we strive to meet regulatory standards, we also want to enact best practices to our residents optimal health and comfort.  

About the course

This course equips care professionals with essential knowledge on constipation in elderly residents, focusing on causes, symptoms, and complications. It covers evidence based best practices for prevention, assessment, treatment and regulatory compliance. It also includes dietary, lifestyle and medication and treatment considerations. Participants will learn proactive strategies to enhance resident comfort, health, and quality of life in residential care settings. PDF downloads are also available including a sample bowel protocol, sample staff training, and sample bowel movement tracking document. 

Dr. Anita Semple, DNP, MSN, RN, FNP

Founder & Lead Educator, SapphireBlue CEU & Consulting With over 30 years of hands-on experience in senior care, healthcare operations, and clinical nursing, Dr. Anita Semple brings unmatched expertise to continuing education for residential care professionals in California. She is a board-certified, doctorate-prepared Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-BC) who has worked across nearly every care setting—including hospitals, home health, skilled nursing, adult residential care, and assisted living. As a former administrator and owner of a 72-bed Residential Care Facility for the Elderly (RCFE) in the San Francisco Bay Area, Dr. Semple understands not only the clinical demands but also the operational and regulatory challenges administrators and staff face daily. She has also served as the administrator of a large Visiting Nurse Association, gaining insight into home health compliance and management. Today, she continues practicing as a nurse practitioner, providing direct care to adult and geriatric patients in assisted living, board and care homes, and skilled nursing facilities. Her continuing education courses are built on real-world insight, evidence-based best practices, and deep respect for the professionals working in residential and long-term care. Every course is designed to be practical, compliant with California Title 22 regulations, and truly supportive of the learners who keep our most vulnerable populations safe and well.

Curriculum

5 Chapters · 22 Lessons

  1. 1

    Constipation: Introduction

    1. (Included in full purchase)

      Course Overview

    2. (Included in full purchase)

      Introduction to Fundamentals of Constipation

    3. (Included in full purchase)

      Question

    4. (Included in full purchase)

      Study Guide: Fundamentals of Constipation

  2. 2

    Causes and Risk Factors

    1. (Included in full purchase)

      Anatomy and Causes

    2. (Included in full purchase)

      Medications Commonly Associated with Constipation

    3. (Included in full purchase)

      Question

    4. (Included in full purchase)

      1. Health Conditions That Increase the Risk of Constipation

    5. (Included in full purchase)

      2. Health Conditions That Increase the Risk of Constipation

  3. 3

    Screening, Treatment, Regulatory Standards and Training

    1. (Included in full purchase)

      Screening and Treatment

    2. (Included in full purchase)

      Complications, Standards and Training

    3. (Included in full purchase)

      Quiz 4

  4. 4

    Significance for Administrators, Regulatory Standards and Conclusion.

    1. (Included in full purchase)

      Significance for Administrators, Regulatory Discussion

    2. (Included in full purchase)

      Course Completion and Next Steps

    3. (Included in full purchase)

      Feedback

    4. (Included in full purchase)

      Final Exam Instructions

    5. (Included in full purchase)

      Final Exam: Fundamentals of Constipation

    6. (Included in full purchase)

      FUNDAMENTALS OF CONSTIPATION FINAL EXAM

  5. 5

    Resources and References

    1. (Included in full purchase)

      References

    2. (Included in full purchase)

      Sample Bowel Care Protocol

    3. (Included in full purchase)

      Sample Bowel Record

    4. (Included in full purchase)

      Staff Training Bowel Care

Don’t Let Constipation Compromise Care!

Gain essential insights, best practices, and regulatory knowledge to keep your residents comfortable and thriving.

Enroll Now!