SIGNS & SYMPTOMS
What kind of bowel sounds are typically heard in early SBO?
High-pitched, tinkling sounds
What is the purpose of keeping an SBO patient NPO?
To rest the bowel and prevent further distension/vomiting
What type of surgery might a patient need if the SBO doesn’t resolve?
Bowel resection or lysis of adhesions
True or False: Opioids are always the first choice in SBO pain.
False — use cautiously due to slowing of GI motility
When can a patient start eating again after SBO treatment?
After passing gas and bowel sounds return
A patient with SBO hasn’t passed gas in 48 hours, is vomiting bile, and has abdominal pain. What is the most likely diagnosis?
Complete small bowel obstruction
You notice the NG tube isn’t draining. What is your first nursing action?
Check for kinks, reposition patient, and flush the tube
Name one non-surgical method used to relieve SBO symptoms.
NG tube decompression
Which pain medication is preferred initially in a patient with mild pain and SBO?
IV Acetaminophen or Ketorolac
What is the nurse’s priority when advancing a diet post-obstruction?
Advance slowly: clear → full → soft, and monitor for tolerance
Your patient’s abdominal pain suddenly goes away, and they become tachycardic and hypotensive. What complication are you worried about?
Bowel perforation or ischemia (bowel death)
What are 2 priority nursing assessments when a patient with SBO has an NG tube in place?
Monitor output (amount, color, consistency), check tube placement, and assess for abdominal distention
Why would a CT scan with contrast be used in SBO diagnosis?
To identify the location and cause of the obstruction (e.g., tumor, stricture, volvulus)
Name one danger of masking pain too well in an SBO patient.
Can hide worsening symptoms like perforation or ischemia
A patient post-bowel resection shows fever and abdominal rigidity. What should the nurse do first?
Notify the provider — could be an anastomotic leak or peritonitis