Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Practice Exam

How is constipation defined?

1. Excessive water content in stool

2. Lack of appetite

3. Condition when the feces remain in the intestines too long, causing dry, hard feces

4. Difficulty in swallowing

The correct answer is: Condition when the feces remain in the intestines too long, causing dry, hard feces

Constipation is characterized as a condition in which feces remain in the intestines for an extended period, leading to the formation of dry and hard stools. This prolonged retention reduces the water content of the stool, making it difficult to pass. The definition captures the essence of what occurs physically in the digestive system during constipation, highlighting the importance of both retention time and the resultant consistency of the stool. In contrast, the other options refer to different bodily issues: excessive water content in stool relates to diarrhea rather than constipation; lack of appetite is a symptom not directly related to bowel regularity; and difficulty swallowing pertains to dysphagia, which is unrelated to stool formation or bowel movements. Understanding the specific nature of constipation helps in providing appropriate care and interventions for those affected by it.