4017.1-25: Implementing a Standardized Clozapine-Induced Constipation Nursing Protocol in Inpatient Psychiatric Settings

Clozapine-induced constipation is a leading cause of life-threatening bowel obstruction in psychiatric inpatients. This session presents a nine-month evaluation of a nursing-led constipation management protocol. Key strategies include structured assessments, prophylactic bowel regimens, and patient education initiatives, to reduce complications and improve Clozapine patient outcomes through prevention-focused care.

Presenters:  Scott Levine, RN, BSN; Anthony Patterson, RN-BSN

Disclosures:  The APNA planners and faculty have no relevant financial relationships to disclose. Off-label uses will not be discussed during this presentation.

Session Length:  15 minutes

Target Audience:  RN, APRN

Learning Outcome:
Upon completion of this presentation, the participant will be able to:

• Describe the development of a nursing-led clozapine constipation protocol.

Key Takeaway(s): 

• Clozapine-induced constipation is preventable through nursing-led interventions that promote hydration, ambulation, and bowl regimen.
• Clozapine-induced constipation poses a significantly greater mortality risk than agranulocytosis, yet it remains under-recognized and under-monitored in clinical practice.

Keywords:  Clozapine Adverse Effects, Clozapine-induced Gastrointestinal Hypomotility (CIGH), Clozapine-induced Constipation

Nursing Continuing Professional Development:
0.25 contact hours.  * In order to receive contact hours, you must: Listen to the entire presentation, complete the reflection activity, evaluation, and honor statement before the expiration date. Once all steps are successfully completed, a certificate will be generated online and available for you to print immediately. Contact hours cannot be awarded unless all required components are completed. 

The American Psychiatric Nurses Association is accredited as a provider of nursing continuing professional development by the American Nurses Credentialing Center’s Commission on Accreditation.

Release Date:  December 8, 2025
Access to this course will end:  December 1, 2028

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