Case Study, Management of Patients With Intestinal and Rectal Disorders
Mr. Thompson sustained a gunshot wound to the abdomen and underwent an exploratory laparotomy and creation of an ileostomy due to damage to the small bowel. You are assigned to care for Mr. Thompson on the third postoperative day. He has a nasogastric tube to low intermittent suction, and he is emitting greenish aspirate. IV access is through a triple lumen right subclavian catheter, and he is receiving D5 0.9% NS with 20 mEq K (potassium)/liter. Mr. Thompson has a dressing to the left abdomen, and there is moderate amount of fluid draining out of his ileostomy.
What is the rationale for the nasogastric tube to low intermittent suction?
Mr. Thompson is at risk for which kinds of electrolyte imbalances?
Upon assessment of the stoma, what findings substantiate a healing stoma?
Mr. Thompson asks when his bowel output will become more solid and if he will be able to have a continent ostomy. How should the nurse respond?
What is the rationale for a low residue diet in the patient with an ileostomy?