2024, Vol. 6, Issue 2, Part B

Background: Constipation is a common issue for patients who have undergone open-heart surgery. It can cause prolonged hospital stays and increasing morbidity. Early interventions by standardized diet and fluids are essential preventive strategies.

Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the standardized diet and its effectiveness on the occurrence of constipation among post open heart surgery patients.

Methods: A quasi-experimental study was conducted with 90 adult post-open-heart surgery patients, categorized into 2 groups: a study group (no.= 45) and a control group (no.= 45). The research was conducted at the Cardiothoracic Surgery Unit of Minia University Hospital, Egypt.

Tools: Data were collected using three primary tools: a structured interview sheet, a bowel assessment sheet (Constipation Assessment Scale and Bristol Stool Form Scale), and an intake and output chart.

Results: The study group which received standard diet for constipation includes 22–34 grams of fiber and at least 1.8 liters of fluids daily, showed a significantly lower incidence of constipation compared to the control group by the tenth day post-surgery (p< 0.01). At the day 10, 100% of the study group was constipation-free compared to 24.4% in the control group.

Conclusion: Standardized diet and fluids are effective and safe interventions for reducing constipation in post-open-heart surgery patients.

Recommendation: Standardized diet and fluids should be routinely integrated into the care of open-heart patients to prevent constipation.