NCLEX-RN® question of the day

A nurse is assessing a 58-year-old patient who has been on prolonged bed rest following hip fracture surgery. The patient reports feeling constipated and has not had a bowel movement in 4 days. The nurse recognizes this is likely related to immobility. Which explanation should the nurse provide to the patient about why immobility affects bowel function?

1. A"Immobility decreases peristalsis and slows the movement of stool through your intestines."
2. B"Bed rest increases your metabolic rate, using up fluids needed for bowel movements."
3. C"Being in bed causes your intestines to absorb less water from food."
4. D"Lying down increases stomach acid production, which slows digestion."