Ch. 49 Inflammatory Intestinal Disorders: Nursing Care

What is peritonitis?

Life-threatening, acute inflammation and infection of the visceral/parietal peritoneum and endothelial lining of the abdominal cavity.

What causes peritonitis?

Contamination from bacteria or chemicals, such as leakage of bile, pancreatic enzymes, or gastric acid.

What are common assessment findings in peritonitis?

Abdominal pain, tenderness, distention, and signs of being acutely ill.

What position might a patient with peritonitis adopt due to pain?

Fetal position with guarded movement.

What vital signs should be monitored in peritonitis?

Signs of septic shock, including hypotension, decreased pulse pressure, tachycardia, fever, and tachypnea.

What is the primary nursing care focus for peritonitis?

Assessing the condition, managing infection, and restoring fluid volume balance.

What type of antibiotics are administered for peritonitis?

Broad-spectrum antibiotics as prescribed.

What surgical interventions may be required for peritonitis?

Exploratory laparotomy/laparoscopy to remove or repair inflamed or perforated organs.

What is gastroenteritis?

Inflammation of the stomach and intestines caused by intestinal parasites, bacteria, or viruses.

How is gastroenteritis commonly transmitted?

Oral-fecal transmission from contaminated food/water or contact with contaminated feces.

What are common symptoms of gastroenteritis?

Nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramping, diarrhea, weakness, and cardiac dysrhythmias.

What is the diagnosis method for gastroenteritis?

Stool analysis.

What is the primary nursing care for gastroenteritis?

Fluid and electrolyte replacement, including oral rehydration therapy and IV fluids for severe dehydration.

What is appendicitis?

Acute inflammation of the vermiform appendix, most often occurring in young adults.

What are common assessment findings in appendicitis?

Cramping abdominal pain in the right lower quadrant, nausea, vomiting, and rebound tenderness.

What lab findings are associated with appendicitis?

Elevated white blood cell count (WBCs).

What surgical procedure is commonly performed for appendicitis?

Laparoscopic appendectomy or open laparotomy if complications are suspected.

What is diverticulosis?

Presence of diverticula (pouches) in the intestinal wall without inflammation.

What are symptoms of diverticulitis?

LLQ pain, fever, chills, tachycardia, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal distention.

What is the nursing management for diverticulitis?

Monitor for fever and abdominal pain, assess fluid/electrolyte balance, and administer antibiotics.

What dietary recommendations are made during the acute phase of diverticulitis?

Avoid all fiber when symptoms are present.

What should patients with diverticulitis do post-resolution?

Gradually add fiber, progressing to a high-fiber diet.

What is a key patient education point for all inflammatory intestinal disorders?

Drink plenty of fluids to maintain hydration.