NCP: Diarrhea, Amoebic Dysentery

Amoebic Dysentery

Need
ELIMINATION PATTERN

Nursing Diagnosis
Diarrhea related to infectious process.

Rationale:
Diarrhea may result from a variety of factors, including intestinal absorption disorders, increased secretion of fluid by the intestinal mucosa, and hypermotility of the intestine. Problems associated with diarrhea, which may be acute or chronic, include fluid and electrolyte imbalance and altered skin integrity. Diarrhea may result from infectious processes or increased intestinal motility such as with irritable bowel disease. Treatment is based on addressing the cause of the diarrhea, replacing fluids and electrolytes, providing nutrition, and maintaining skin integrity.
Source:
http://www1.us.elsevierhealth.com/MERLIN/Gulanick/Constructor/index.cfm?plan=16

Objective of Care
Within my 8 hours of care my patient will be manifest the the following:

a. formed stool;
b. maintain good skin turgor and moist mucous membranes.

Nursing Interventions
1. Assess hydration status.
® Diarrhea can lead to profound dehydration and electrolyte imbalance.
2. Assess for temperature elevation, irritability, vomiting.
® Provides information about signs and symptoms associated with diarrhea.
3. Assess condition of perianal skin.
® Diarrheal stools may be highly corrosive, as a result of increased enzyme content.
4. Assess for fluid loss (dry skin and mucous memebranes, poor turgor).
® Indicates possible dehydration.
5. Encourage fluids.
® Fluids compensate for malabsorption and loss of nutrients.
6. Encourage to eat fiber-rich foods.
® To form consistency of stool.
7. Change diaper frequently as needed and wash area with warm water.
® Protects skin from excretions and secretions that are irritating that can cause skin breakdown.
8. Monitor intake and output.
® To assess for possible dehydration.
9. Avoidance of stimulants (e.g., caffeine, carbonated beverages).
® Stimulants may increase GI motility and worsen diarrhea.
10. Give antidiarrheal drugs as ordered.
® Most antidiarrheal drugs suppress GI motility, thus allowing for more fluid absorption.
11. Discuss proper food handling including proper handwashing
® Prevents transmission or spread of microorganisms to others and contamination of food.

Luxner, Karla, RNC, ND (2005). Delmar's Pediatric Nursing Care Plans 3rd ed.
Thomson Delmar Learning, Clifton Park, New York, USA. p. 136-137