CHAPTER 7 Gastrointestinal System^299
NURSING INTERVENTION
- Monitor vital signs for fever, increased heart rate, and decreased blood pressure.
- Assess abdomen for distention, presence of bowel sounds.
- Monitor intake and output.
- Postoperatively check:
- Stoma at colostomy site
- Wound site for drainage or signs of infection
- Peripheral circulation, swelling due to increased risk of clot formation
- Teach patients:
- Eat low-residue foods during flare-ups.
- Eat high-fiber diet when asymptomatic, fresh fruits and vegetables, whole
wheat breads, bran cereals. - Avoid laxatives and enemas due to increased irritation and intra-abdominal
pressure. - Avoid lifting during exacerbation.
- Avoid eating nuts and seeds.
Gastroenteritis
WHAT WENT WRONG?
An acute inflammation of the gastric and intestinal mucosa which is most com-
monly due to bacterial, viral, protozoal, or parasitic infection. It may also be caused
by irritation due to chemical or toxin exposure or allergic response. Viral exposure
is more likely in winter; bacterial exposure is more common in summer when
food-borne illness exposure is likely.
PROGNOSIS
Symptoms may be self-limiting or may need prescription medication to resolve the
illness. Older or debilitated patients may have more severe symptoms or require
hospitalization due to dehydration.
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