Appendicitis

Appendicitis a condition characterized by inflammation of the appendix. It is classified as a medical emergency and many cases require removal of the inflamed appendix, either by laparotomy or laparoscopy. Untreated, mortality is high, mainly because of peritonitis and shock. Reginald Fitz first described acute and chronic appendicitis in 1886, and it has been recognized as one of the most common causes of severe acute abdominal pain worldwide. A correctly diagnosed non-acute form of appendicitis is known as "rumbling appendicitis".


Nursing Diagnosis for Appendicitis

High risk of infection related to an inadequate primary defenses, perforation, peritonitis secondary to inflammatory processes

Nursing Interventions for Appendicitis
  1. Assess and record the quality, location and duration of pain. Beware of the pain becomes severe.
  2. Monitor and record vital signs of the increase in temperature, pulse, breathing fast and shallow existence.
  3. Assess the abdomen against the rigidity and distention, decreased bowel sounds.
  4. Perform wound care with aseptic technique.
  5. See incision and bandage. Record the drainage characteristics of the wound / drain, erythema.
  6. Collaboration: antibiotics

Nursing Diagnosis for Appendicitis

Pain associated with distention of intestinal tissue by inflammation, a surgical incision

Nursing Interventions for Appendicitis
  1. Assess pain. Record the location, characteristics of pain.
  2. Keep the rest in semi-Fowler position.
  3. Suggest to early ambulation.
  4. Teach diaphragmatic breathing techniques to slow to help release muscle tension.
  5. Avoid pressure popliteal area.
  6. Give antiemetic, analgesic according to the program.