Assignment task: J.L, a 33-year old female, presents to the ED reporting the following:
10 liquid, bloody stools in past 24 hours
Tenesmus (unpleasant and urgent sensation to defecate)
Severe lower abdominal cramping
Pain level 7
Denies history of GI disorders
V.S are 122/74, 110, 24, 100.3
The provider has ordered IV fluids, complete blood count (CBC), and complete metabolic panel (CMP). The patient is NPO.
Q1. Explain the rationale for the provider's orders.
Q2. What additional physical assessment data would you obtain? Explain.
Q3. Explain the nursing care necessary.
J.L is diagnosed with severe ulcerative colitis (UC). It has been 4 hours since J.L came to the E.D. and she has had 3 bloody liquid stools. Reassessment of V.S reveal the following: 98/66, 122, 22, 100.1.
Q4. Two hours later when assisting J.L up to the restroom, J.L reports feeling lightheaded and nauseous. Explain your next action? What do you think may be happening in your patient? What are your concerns?