A CNA notices that a client has not had any bowel movements for four days. Which procedure would be most beneficial?

In this scenario, when a client has not had a bowel movement for four days, it indicates potential constipation or a blockage that might need more immediate intervention. Administering an enema serves as a beneficial procedure in such cases because it directly introduces fluid into the rectum, which helps to soften stool and stimulate bowel movement, alleviating constipation effectively.

While options like a high fiber diet, abdominal massage, and increasing water intake are all helpful strategies in promoting regular bowel habits and preventing constipation in the long term, they may not provide the immediate relief needed for a client who has gone several days without a bowel movement. These strategies generally work best as preventative measures or for minor cases of constipation, whereas in instances of significant stagnation, an enema can offer a more immediate solution.