Introduction to Dysfunctional Gastrointestinal Motility
Dysfunctional Gastrointestinal Motility (DGM) is a nursing diagnosis distinct from other gastrointestinal motility diagnoses, such as Gastroesophageal Reflux. This diagnosis describes impaired movement of the bowel or intestinal tract that affects the functioning of the gastrointestinal system.
Nursing Diagnosis Definition
Dysfunctional Gastrointestinal Motility is defined by the NANDA International organization as “A decrease in the ability of the GI tract to propel and mix its contents”.
Defining Characteristics
Subjective
- Abdominal pain
- Bloating
- Gas
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Weak appetite
Objective
- Abnormal lab results
- Changes in bowel sound
- Lethargy
- Weight loss
Dysfunctional Gastrointestinal Motility may occur in individuals with chronic diseases or conditions of physiological or psychological origin, such as:
- Acute or chronic inflammation of intestines
- Bowel obstruction
- Cancer of the GI tract
- Depression
- Diabetes mellitus
- Functional bowel disorder
- Neurological disorders
- Partial gastrectomy
Risk Population
Those at increased risk for DGM are people with a history of abdominal surgery, gastro-intestinal disease, eating disorders, or taking medications that affect the central nervous system.
Associated Problems
Individuals with DGM may experience problems such as electrolyte and mineral imbalances, malnutrition, dehydration, sepsis, and infection.
Suggestions for Use
Dysfunctional Gastrointestinal Motility should be used as part of a comprehensive plan of care when assessing and planning interventions for clients and families/caregivers with altered gastro-intestinal motility.
Suggested Alternative NANDA diagnoses
Other nursing diagnoses that may be related to Dysfunctional Gastrointestinal Motility include:
- Impaired Gas Exchange
- Ineffective Health Maintenance
- Risk for Ineffective Therapeutic Regimen Management
Usage Tips
- Use of this diagnosis should be based on actual or potential changes in gastrointestinal motility, not just complaints of symptoms like bloating or gas.
- When using this diagnosis, it should always be used in conjunction with a problem-focused diagnosis to guide interventions.
- Performing a thorough physical assessment can provide valuable information and help to identify potential contributing factors.
NOC Results
- GI Motility: The patient’s ability to effectively pass feces, food, liquids, or air through the digestive system.
- Nutrition: Intake of food to maintain health and meet individual needs.
- Bowel Elimination: The presence of normal, timely, complete bowel evacuations.
NIC Interventions
- Gastrointestinal Motility Monitor: Regularly assess gastric motility patterns and symptom intensity.
- Nutritional Counseling: Provide education about nutrition, lifestyle changes, and strategies for improving dietary intake.
- Bowel Management: Implement plans of care to maintain regular and complete bowel movements.
Conclusion
Dysfunctional Gastrointestinal Motility is a nursing diagnosis distinct from other gastrointestinal motility diagnoses, such as Gastroesophageal Reflux. It is used to identify individuals with impaired movement of the bowel or intestinal tract that affects the functioning of the gastrointestinal system. NANDA suggests that this diagnosis should be used in conjunction with a problem-focused diagnosis to guide interventions. It is important for nurses to understand how to use this diagnosis, how to assess for risk populations, and how to implement interventions to improve or maintain bowel motility.
FAQ
What is Dysfunctional Gastrointestinal Motility? Dysfunctional Gastrointestinal Motility (DGIM) is a nursing diagnosis distinct from other gastrointestinal motility diagnoses, such as Gastroesophageal Reflux. It describes impaired movement of the bowel or intestinal tract that affects the functioning of the gastrointestinal system.
Who is at risk for Dysfunctional Gastrointestinal Motility?People with a history of abdominal surgery, GI disease, eating disorders, or taking medications that affect the central nervous system are at increased risk.
What are some associated problems with Dysfunctional Gastrointestinal Motility?Individuals with DGM may experience problems such as electrolyte and mineral imbalances, malnutrition, dehydration, sepsis, and infection.
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