Appendicitis

- Inflammation of the vermiform

appendix that prevents mucus
from passing into the cecum; if
untreated, ischemia, gangrene,
rupture, and peritonitis occur
- Occurs in about 7% of the
population and affects males
more often than females
Causes:
mechanical obstruction (fecaliths,
calcium-phosphate rich mucus &
inorganic salts, worms, tumors, viral
infection, inflammation) may be related
to decreased fiber in the diet and high
intake of refined carbohydrates
kinking of appendix

Crohn’s Disease & Ulcerative

PATHOPHYSIOLOGY:
Colitis Obstruction of the appendix lumen
Nursing interventions: (Crohn’s & UC) (mucosa continues to secrete fluids until
● Maintain NPO during the active pressure w/in the lumen exceeds venous
phase pressure)
● Monitor for complications like 🡫
severe bleeding, dehydration, blood flow to appendix, mucosal
electrolyte imbalance Inflammation and bacterial proliferation
● Monitor bowel sounds, stool and 🡫
blood studies gangrene develops w/in 24-36° due to
● Restrict activities hypoxia
● Administer IVF, electrolytes and 🡫
TPN if prescribed Abscess
● Instruct the patient to AVOID 🡫
gas-forming foods, MILK products Peritonitis
and foods such as whole grains,
nuts, RAW fruits and vegetables
(SPINACH), pepper, alcohol and
caffeine
Diet progression- clear liquid🡪 LOW
residue, high protein diet
Administer drugs
- anti-inflammatory, antibiotics,
steroids, bulk-forming agents and
vitamin/iron supplements