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PeristalsisPeristalsis is
The rhythmic wave-like movements that begin in the esophagus and continue to the rectum
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Elimination goal
The goal is to maintain the pts normal frequency pattern of bowel elimination
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Normal characteristics of stool
- Soft, formed consistency
- longer, curved shape
- yellow in infants
- light brown to dark brown in color
- absence of pus, mucous, fat
- absence of parasites
- Slight odor
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Abnormal characteristics of stool
- Liquid, watery, unformed, very hard and dry
- balls, clumps, broken off chunks, flat, ribbon like, pencil like
- bright red blood, black, coffee-ground appearance, pale, white, gray, or clay color
- presence of pus, excessive mucus, foamy presence of worms or eggs
- foul odor
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Constipation
Less frequent, hard, formed stools, that are difficult to expel
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Inpaction
blockage of the movement of contents through the intestines by a bulk mass of very hard stool
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Signs of inpaction
- Anorexia
- bloating
- cramping
- malaise
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Diarrhea
Loose or watery stools occurring three or more times a day
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Complications of diarrhea
- Dehydration
- electrolyte imbalance
- Dehydration -
- elderly pts
- infants
- small children
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Causes of constipation and diarrhea
- Change in activity level
- change in dietary and fluid intake
- side effects of medication
- side effects of surgery
- pregnancy
- high stress levels
- laxative abuse
- aging process
- structural changes
- chemical changes
- food allergies
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Peritonitis
when fecal material and bacteria enter the sterile peritoneum
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Commons signs and symptoms of peritonitis
- Malaise
- anorexia
- nausea
- vomiting
- Abdominal distention
- decreased or absent bowel sounds
- fever
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Who is at greater risk for fecal impaction?
- Elders
- pts on bed rest
- severely dehydrated pts
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Bowel elimination documentation should include
- Color
- amount
- consistency
- shape
- Odor
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