A patient is receiving opioids for pain. Which bowel assessment is a priority?

Choice A reason: Opioids slow gastrointestinal motility by binding to mu-opioid receptors in the gut, reducing peristalsis and increasing water absorption, leading to constipation. This is a common, predictable side effect requiring proactive monitoring to prevent discomfort or complications like impaction. Choice B reason: Diarrhea is less likely with opioids, which typically cause constipation. While diarrhea could indicate an unrelated issue, it is not a primary concern associated with opioid use, making it a lower priority for assessment. Choice C reason: Hemorrhoids may result from straining due to constipation but are a secondary concern. Opioids do not directly cause hemorrhoids, so assessing for constipation takes precedence to address the root cause of potential straining. Choice D reason: Clostridium difficile infection is a risk with antibiotic use, not opioids. While opioid-induced constipation could alter gut flora indirectly, C. difficile is not a primary concern, making constipation the more immediate assessment priority.