Types of Obstructions
An obstruction that has a physical cause
What is a mechanical obstruction?
An obstruction that causes frequent vomiting.
What is a small bowel obstruction?
Tests that help identify an obstruction and determine if surgery is needed.
What are imaging tests such as an xray or ct scan?
The diet a pt with an obstruction will be on.
What is an ostomy?
An example of a non mechanical obstruction.
What is a paralytic ileus?
An obstruction that causes lower abdominal pain.
What is a large bowel obstruction?
A test that provides direct visualization of a large bowel obstruction.
What is a sigmoidoscopy or colonscopy?
Allows for decompression of the stomach.
What is an NG Tube?
Determines the type of colostomy drainage.
What is the location of the ostomy?
Dehydration occurs rapidly with this type of obstruction.
What is a small bowel obstruction?
Usually the first symptom of an obstruction.
What is colicky abd pain?
Indicates bleeding.
What is a low hemoglobin level?
Medications that are given to help with nausea and vomiting.
What are anti-emetics?
For a strangulated obstruction or in the presence of a perforation.
When is emergency surgery indicated?
The development of scar tissue that can lead to an obstruction.
What is an adhesion?
The 4 main manifestations of an obstruction.
What are abd pain, n/v, distention, and constipation if grouped together?
Indicates strangulation or perforation.
What is a high WBC count?
The reason for antibiotics being administered to a patient with an obstruction?
What is the risk for sepsis?
What is pink/red, mildly swollen?
4 main causes of a mechanical obstruction
What are herniation, adhesions, intussusception, and volvulus?
Type of shock that occurs with an obstruction.
What is hypovolemic shock or septic shock?
The acid-base imbalance seen with an obstruction.
What is metabolic alkalosis?
How often the NG tube should be checked for patency.
What is every 4 hours?
When to empty the ostomy bag.
What is 1/3 full?