Open AccessIncidence and predictors of new‐onset constipation during acute hospitalisation after stroke
Author(s) -
Lim S.F.,
Ong S. Y.,
Tan Y. L.,
Ng Y. S.,
Chan Y. H.,
Childs C.
Publication year - 2015
Publication title -
international journal of clinical practice
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.756
H-Index - 98
eISSN - 1742-1241
pISSN - 1368-5031
DOI - 10.1111/ijcp.12528
Subject(s) - medicine , constipation , incidence (geometry) , stroke (engine) , prospective cohort study , cohort , comorbidity , cohort study , pediatrics , physical therapy , mechanical engineering , physics , optics , engineering
Summary Objectives We investigated new‐onset constipation in patients with stroke compared with orthopaedic conditions and explored the predictors associated with constipation during acute hospitalisation. Methods This was a prospective matched cohort study of 110 patients comparing stroke patients ( n = 55) with orthopaedic patients ( n = 55) admitted to a large tertiary acute hospital. Both cohorts were matched by age and sex. The incidence of new‐onset constipation which occurred during a patient's acute hospitalisation was determined. Demographics, comorbidity, clinical factors, laboratory parameters and medications were evaluated as possible predictors of constipation. Results The incidence of new‐onset constipation was high for both stroke (33%) and orthopaedic patients (27%; p = 0.66). Seven stroke patients (39%) and four orthopaedic patients (27%) developed their first onset of constipation on day 2 of admission. Mobility gains ( RR 0.741, p < 0.001) and the use of prophylactic laxatives ( RR 0.331, p < 0.01) had a protective effect against constipation. Bedpan use ( RR 2.058, p < 0.05) and longer length of stay ( RR 1.032, p < 0.05) increased the risk of developing new‐onset constipation. Conclusions New‐onset constipation is common among patients admitted for stroke and orthopaedic conditions during acute hospitalisation. The early occurrence, on day 2 of admission, calls for prompt preventive intervention for constipation.