Intussusception Nursing Diagnosis and Nursing Interventions
Intussusception (Also Called 'Bowel Obstruction') Intussusception is when one segment of intestine "telescopes" inside of another causing an intestinal obstruction. Although it can occur anywhere in the gastrointestinal tract, it usually occurs at the junction of the small and large intestine. The obstruction can cause swelling & inflammation that can lead to tearing of the intestines. Intussusception’s cause is unknown, but is usually preceded by a virus that produces swelling of the lining of the intestine, which then prolapses into the downstream intestine. In some children, it is caused by a congenital anomaly of the intestine such as a polyp or diverticulum. What are the symptoms of intussusception? The characteristic signs and symptoms of intussusception are episodic, severe, crampy abdominal pain alternating with periods of lethargy. Small children may draw their knees up to their chest. Other possible symptoms of intussusception include: Nausea and vomitin