(6)
Paralytic ileus.
(7)
Fever.
(8)
Rapid pulse rate.
(9)
Elevated WBC.
d. Nursing implications. The objectives of medical treatment are to identify and
eliminate the cause, treat the infection, and maintain fluid and electrolyte balance, while
promoting patient comfort. To promote patient comfort, the nursing personnel should do
the following:
(1) Observe for signs of hypovolemia and shock. These conditions may
result from loss of fluids and electrolytes into the abdominal cavity.
(2)
Strictly monitor I&O and vital signs.
(3) Observe safety precautions, since fever and pain may cause the patient
to become disoriented.
(4)
Administer prescribed medications and intravenous fluid replacement.
1-53. INTESTINAL OBSTRUCTION
a. Intestinal obstruction is defined as any hindrance to the passage of intestinal
contents through the small and/or large bowel. Obstruction may be partial or complete.
Severity depends upon the area of bowel affected, the degree of blockage, and the
degree of vascular impairment.
b. Intestinal obstruction is divided into two basic categories: mechanical and
non-mechanical.
(1) Mechanical obstruction results from obstruction within the lumen of the
intestine or mural obstruction from pressure on the walls of the intestines. Causes
include:
(a)
Foreign bodies such as fruit pits, parasitic worms, or gallstones.
(b) Volvulus.
(c)
Intussusception.
(d) Hernia.
(e) Cancer.
MD0918
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