This session will be presented by Gerri Mortimore.
Nurse practitioners are autonomous practitioners who are required to manage clinical care in partnership with patients, families, and carers. This requires analysis and synthesis using evidence to undertake complex decision-making. This presentation will examine the issue of constipation, with particular emphasis on the older patient group. The aetiology and epidemiology of constipation will be examined, the pathophysiological manifestation considered and the diagnosis and management within this population will be discussed to ensure autonomous, safe management of this condition.