Patho/Risk Factor
This type of bowel obstruction involves physical blockage, such as adhesions or tumors
What is mechanical obstruction?
This hallmark sound is heard above the obstruction
What are high pitched bowel sounds?
This imaging test often reveals air-fluid levels
What is an abdominal x-ray?
This tube is inserted to decompress the stomach and relieve pressure
What is an NG tube?
This antiemetic is used to control N/V
What is ondansetron (Zofran)?
A patient with a history of abdominal surgery is at risk for bowel obstruction due to this common cause
What are adhesions?
This symptom occurs when the patient cannot pass gas or stool
What is obstipation?
This imaging modality is most specific for identifying the cause and location
What is a CT scan?
Keeping the patient in this status allows the bowel to rest
What is NPO?
This therapy corrects fluid and electrolyte imbalances
What is IV therapy/ IV fluids?
This twisting of the bowel is a mechanical cause of obstruction
What is volvulus?
These two vital sign changes may indicate dehydration
What are tachycardia and hypotension?
This blood test can be elevated with bowel ischemia
What is serum lactate?
Monitoring this helps track hydration
What is I&O?
After NG tube removal patients advance to this type of diet first
What is clear liquid?
This inflammatory bowel disease increases the risk of strictures and obstruction
What is Crohns disease?
This abdominal condition often presents with obstruction, is visible, and measurable
What is abdominal distension?
Loss of gastric contents via vomiting can lead to this acid-base imbalance
What is metabolic alkalosis?
You would closely monitor this electrolyte as its loss from vomiting can impair peristalsis
What is Potassium?
Post op patients should be encouraged to do this to stimulate GI motility
What is ambulation?
This type of obstruction is caused by a lack of peristalsis rather than a blockage
What is Paralytic ileus (non-mechanical)?
A subjective S/S of bowel obstruction
1. Abdominal distension
2. high-pitched bowel sounds
3. inability to pass gas
4. visible peristalsis
What is 3. inability to pass gas?
Rationale for drawing a CBC
What is to indicate infection, bowel ischemia, or perforation?
This surgical intervention may be required for a complete obstruction
What is bowel resection?
Patients should report this early sign of obstruction recurrence
What is abdominal bloating or pain?