NURS3072 Lecture Notes - Lecture 6: Ileus, Abdominal Distension, Abdominal Pain
Document Summary
Occurs when a partial or complete obstruction of the intestines prevents intestinal contents from passing through the gi tract- requires prompt treatment. Pathophysiology and etiology: mechanical obstruction, may be caused by an occlusion of the lumen of the intestinal tract, mostly in the small intestines and usually d/t adhesions. Carcinoma most common cause of large bowel obstruction, followed by volvulus and diverticular disease. Non-mechanical obstruction: may result from a neuro- muscular or vascular disorder. Can be caused by peritonitis, inflammatory responses, electrolyte abnormalities, and thoracic or lumbar spinal fractures. Fluid, gas, and intestinal contents accumulate proximal to the intestinal obstruction. This causes distension, and the distal bowel may collapse. The distension reduces the absorption of fluids and stimulates intestinal secretions. As the fluid increases, so does the pressure in the lumen of the bowel. The increased pressure leads to an increase in capillary permeability and extravasation of fluids and electrolytes into the peritoneal cavity.
