Post-Operative: Gastrointestinal

• What is a key indicator of GI assessment?

  Return of bowel sounds
• What are the expected outcomes of GI assessment?

  • Nausea/vomiting controlled
  • Return of GI motility
  • Bowel sounds
  • Passage of flatulence
• What is an expected symptom after treatment?

  Nausea/vomiting controlled
• What indicates the return of gastrointestinal motility?

  Bowel sounds and passage of flatulence
• What are the concerns associated with nausea and vomiting (N & V)?

  Irritation to abdominal wound
• What electrolyte imbalances can occur due to N & V?

  Electrolyte imbalance
• What can result from fluid loss due to N & V?

  Dehydration
• What is a potential complication of aspiration?

  Aspiration pneumonia
• What are the signs of paralytic ileus?

  Abdominal distension and absence of bowel sounds
• What symptoms accompany paralytic ileus?

  Pain, nausea, and vomiting
• What interventions are recommended for managing N & V?

  • NPO until further notice
  • Patient side-lying if nausea/vomiting increases
  • Oral intake: start with ice chips, then water, then plain snacks
  • Frequent assessment of the patient
  • Administer anti-emetics as needed
  • Encourage return to ambulation
• When should a patient be NPO?

  Until further notice from the physician
• What position should a patient be in if experiencing severe nausea?

  Side-lying position
• What is the first step in oral intake after N & V?

  Start with ice chips
• Why is frequent assessment important during oral intake after N & V?

  To monitor for any recurrence of symptoms
• When should anti-emetics be administered?

  As needed for nausea and vomiting
• What is the goal of encouraging return to ambulation?

  To promote recovery and prevent complications