What indicator of fecal impaction should you assess for in a patient with a serious illness and recent history of constipation?

In assessing for fecal impaction, one of the key indicators to look for is the sudden onset of liquid stools. This phenomenon occurs because as a fecal impaction develops in the rectum, liquid stool may bypass the hardened mass, leading to the passage of liquid stools. It suggests that there is a blockage preventing the normal passage of stools, resulting in this characteristic symptom.

This sign is particularly important in patients with serious illnesses, who may have diminished mobility or altered bowel habits due to medications or disease processes. Identifying this symptom through assessment can guide further diagnostic measures or treatment interventions needed to alleviate the impaction and associated complications.

While abdominal pain may occur in cases of fecal impaction, it is not specific to this condition, as other gastrointestinal issues can also lead to abdominal discomfort. Blood in the stool and loss of appetite can indicate various medical conditions and are not direct indicators of fecal impaction. Therefore, focusing on the sudden onset of liquid stools provides a clearer and more relevant indicator for evaluating fecal impaction in this clinical context.