Nursing care plan for acute gastroenteritis

Introduction

Acute gastroenteritis is a short-term inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract that is typically caused by viral or bacterial infection. It is an infection caused by consuming contaminated food, coming in contact with an infected person, or through water contaminated by an infectious organism that leads to an acute abdomen.

Assessment

Physical examination is necessary to identify the etiology, degree of dehydration, malnutrition, and concurrent illnesses. Laboratory tests for mucosal diseases, such as complete blood count, differential white blood cell count, electrolyte balance, and stool analysis may be needed.

Nursing Diagnosis

The primary nursing diagnosis for acute gastroenteritis include: Imbalanced Nutrition: Less than body Requirements, related to vomiting and diarrhea; and Fluid Volume Deficit related to vomiting and excessive diuresis.

Outcomes

The expected outcomes for a patient with acute gastroenteritis includes: Restoration of fluid volume, Preservation of nutritional status, Relief of abdominal discomfort, and Assistance with lifestyle adaptation to prevent further episodes.

Interventions

• Provide oral rehydration solution (ORS) or intravenous fluids as indicated.
• Encourage small frequent feedings.
• Consult a dietician for dietary modification.
• Ensure adequate rest and activity.
• Administer medications as prescribed by physician.

Rationales

ORS helps to replace lost fluids and electrolytes. Small frequent feedings help to increase nutrition intake. Diet modification adjusts for decreased tolerance to certain foods and decreases the possibility of allergic reactions. Adequate rest helps provide energy for healing and activities prevents muscular weakness and can reduce risk of reinfection.

Evaluation

Evaluate responses by determining the improvement in signs and symptoms of the patient. Monitor hydration status, electrolyte level, and weight to assess effectiveness of interventions.

Conclusion

Acute gastroenteritis is a common GI disease caused by a bacterial, viral, or parasite infection that requires prompt treatment. Nursing interventions are aimed at managing the most predominant symptom of the disease, which is dehydration. Proper assessment, preventive care, and early interventions will result in expeditious recovery.

FAQs

1. What is acute gastroenteritis?
   Acute gastroenteritis is a short-term inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract that is typically caused by viral or bacterial infection.
2. What is the treatment for acute gastroenteritis?
   The treatment includes providing oral rehydration solution (ORS) or intravenous fluids, encouraging small frequent feedings, consulting a dietician for dietary modification, ensuring adequate rest and activity, and administering medications as prescribed by physician.
3. What is the expected outcome for a patient with acute gastroenteritis?
   The expected outcomes for a patient with acute gastroenteritis includes: restoration of fluid volume, preservation of nutritional status, relief of abdominal discomfort, and assistance with lifestyle adaptation to prevent further episodes.
4. What is the role of the nurse in treating a patient with acute gastroenteritis?
   The role of the nurse is to monitor the patient and provide interventions to increase their comfort and support while they combat symptoms and recover. The nurse should provide preventive care, monitor the effectiveness of interventions, evaluate responses and progress, and promote lifestyle adaptations to prevent future episodes.
5. How long does it take to recover from acute gastroenteritis?
   Acute gastroenteritis typically only lasts a few days. With proper treatment and care, a full recovery can be expected within a week.