Intestinal Obstruction

In this lesson, we will discuss some factors that can cause an intestinal obstruction, or blockage.   We will look at signs and symptoms and potential complications that nurses will assess for and diagnostics used to locate and confirm an obstruction.  Lastly, priority nursing interventions will be addressed including assessing for complications and client education.

Learning Objectives:

Upon the completion of this course, learners will be able to:

1. Describe an intestinal obstruction
2. Differentiate between two main types of intestinal obstructions
3. List risk factors for developing an intestinal obstruction
4. Identify signs and symptoms of an intestinal obstruction
5. Determine nursing interventions used to manage clients with an intestinal obstruction
6. Summarize medical interventions used to treat an intestinal obstruction