HESI Health Assessment Practice Test 2026 – All-in-One Study Guide for Exam Success!

The primary concern regarding the nutritional status of a 68-year-old woman with constipation is that the absorption of nutrients may be impaired. As individuals age, digestive changes can occur, which can affect how well nutrients are absorbed from food. Constipation can further complicate this issue; when stool remains in the colon for extended periods, it can lead to the reabsorption of water and additional waste from the stool, which may inhibit the proper absorption of essential nutrients.

Moreover, chronic constipation often results in less than optimal dietary choices, as discomfort may lead to avoidance of certain foods that are high in fiber or that the individual typically consumes for nutrition. This avoidance could contribute to a cycle where inadequate fiber intake exacerbates constipation, leading to further nutritional deficiencies. Therefore, the concern about nutrient absorption is critical to this setting, as impaired absorption not only affects a person's overall health but can also influence their energy levels, immunity, and recovery from illness.

The other options may relate to broader gastrointestinal or health concerns but do not directly address the immediate nutritional implications seen in someone experiencing persistent constipation.