1. NG tube nursing considerations and interventions - Assess for N/V increased abdominal distention, placement of tube. at least every four hours, check NG tube for proper placement and tube patency and output monitor nasal skin for irritation use a device that secures the tube to the nose to prevent accidental removal assess for peristalsis by auscultating bowel sounds with the suction disconnected (suction makes peristalsis sounds) After placement: aspirate contents and irrigate the tube every 4 hours with 30mL of saline, new bag every 24 hours 2. Ostomy nursing considerations/ education - Measurement of stoma- measure every week Cut hair around stoma Appearance of normal stoma Signs and symptoms of complication Measurement of stoma Nutrition: veggies cause gas Protecting the stoma Use mild soap to clean around stoma 3. Mechanical bowel obstruction - caused from tumors, hernias, adhesions, vascular disorders, and fecal impaction 4. Non-mechanical bowel obstruction - caused from neurogenic, physiologic, or chemical imbalances as a result of an MI, shock, peritonitis, or hypokalemia 5. IBS s/sx and cause - Chronic or recurrent diarrhea Constipation Abdominal pain Bloating Causes: The exact cause is unknown. 6. IBS assessment findings - Ask patients about hx of weight change Fatigue Malaise Abdominal pain or changes in bowel pattern Ask if the patient has had or has any GI infections. Ask about nutrition hx use of caffeine, beverages sweetened with sorbitol or fructose can cause bloating or diarrhea. Assess abdomen location, intensity, and quality of pain. The LLQ is usually where they feel pain. 7. IBS tx - Diet modification (Low residue-low fiber, high protein, high calorie) Stress reduction Medications such as bulk forming laxatives, antidiarrheal agents 8. GI bleed s/sx - sharp, sudden, persistent, and severe epigastric or abdominal pain, bloody or black stools, bloody vomit or vomit that looks like coffee grounds