Nursing Care For Intestinal Obstruction: An Overview

Intestinal obstruction, characterized by a partial or complete blockage of the intestinal lumen, presents challenges for nurses in developing appropriate care plans. It is often accompanied by complications such as impaired bowel motility, fluid and electrolyte imbalances, and altered nutritional status. Recognizing these associated factors helps nurses anticipate potential risks and develop timely interventions to prevent or mitigate complications in individuals experiencing intestinal obstruction.

Structure for Nursing Diagnosis: Intestinal Obstruction

When dealing with intestinal obstruction, it’s crucial to create a precise nursing diagnosis that guides tailored interventions. The most effective structure for this diagnosis comprises:

• Defining Characteristics:

  • Abdominal pain
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Constipation
  • Abdominal distension

• Related Factors:

  • Mechanical factors (e.g., adhesions, tumors)
  • Functional factors (e.g., ileus, motility disorders)

• Risk Factors:

  • Previous abdominal surgery
  • Inflammatory bowel disease
  • Hernia
  • Constipation

• Goals (NOC):

  • Improved gastrointestinal function
  • Relief of pain
  • Enhanced nutritional status

• Interventions (NIC):

  1. Establish nasogastric suction to relieve distension
  2. Monitor electrolyte balance and fluid status
  3. Administer antiemetics to control nausea and vomiting
  4. Promote bowel rest to reduce colonic distension
  5. Provide nutritional support through intravenous fluids or parenteral nutrition

• Evaluation Criteria:

  • Resolution of abdominal pain
  • Reduced nausea and vomiting
  • Improved bowel function
  • Stable electrolyte and fluid balance

• Nursing Orders:

  • Insert and maintain nasogastric tube
  • Monitor intake and output strictly
  • Administer medications as prescribed
  • Provide regular pain assessments and interventions
  • Collaborate with the healthcare team for further management

Question 1:
What is the pathophysiology of intestinal obstruction?

Answer:
Intestinal obstruction is a condition in which the passage of contents through the intestines is obstructed. This can be caused by various factors, such as adhesions, hernias, tumors, or strictures. The obstruction can lead to reduced absorption of nutrients, fluid and electrolyte imbalance, and bacterial overgrowth.

Question 2:
What are the clinical manifestations of intestinal obstruction?

Answer:
The clinical manifestations of intestinal obstruction vary depending on the location and severity of the obstruction. Common symptoms include abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, constipation, and abdominal distension. Other symptoms may include fever, tachycardia, and hypotension.

Question 3:
How is intestinal obstruction diagnosed?

Answer:
Intestinal obstruction is typically diagnosed based on the patient’s history and physical examination findings. Imaging studies, such as X-rays and CT scans, may be used to confirm the diagnosis and identify the location and extent of the obstruction.

Hey there! Thanks so much for sticking with me through this crash course on intestinal obstruction. I know it can be a bit of a tough topic to wrap your head around, but I hope this article helped clear things up a bit. If you’ve got any other questions or just want to geek out about nursing diagnoses, feel free to swing by again. I’m always up for a chat!