Small Bowel Obstruction

-tara
Small-bowel obstruction is commonly
caused by incarceration in hernias
or by adhesions and is less
commonly caused by tumors
(primary or metastatic),
obturation by foreign bodies, a
Meckel's diverticulum, or Crohn's
disease
 Manifestations
Symptoms:
1.Abdominal x-ray in both the supine
and upright positions usually
confirms diagnosis.
2.Vomiting starts early with small-
bowel and late with large-bowel
obstruction.
3.Obstipation occurs with complete
obstruction, but diarrhea may be
present with partial obstruction.
Signs:
Dehydration
Intense thirst
Drowsiness
Aching
Breath odor
 Diagnostic Findings
Abdominal x-ray in both the supine
and upright positions usually
confirms diagnosis.
Ct Findings include abnormal
quantities of gas, fluid or both in
the intestines.
Laboratory studies (CBC, electrolyte
study) reveal a picture of
dehydration, los of plasma volume,
and possible infection
 Medical Management
-Nasogastric suction
-IV fluids
-Laparotomy-  surgical procedure
involving an incision through
the abdominal wall to gain access into
the abdominal cavity.
-Obstructing gallstones are removed
by lithotomy.
 Nursing Management
1.Assess for fluid and electrolyte
imbalance
2.Monitor nutritional status
3.Assess for improvement (return of
normal bowel sounds, decreased
Abdominal