GROUP 7 Flashcards
Choledocholithiasis
Definition: Presence of stones in the common bile duct (CBD).
Complications:
Obstruction of bile flow
Jaundice
Increased risk of infection or pancreatitis
Gallbladder and Bile
Gallbladder Function:
Stores bile produced by the liver.
Releases bile into the duodenum to aid digestion.
Connected to the duodenum via the CBD.
Bile Functions:
Aids in digestion and emulsification of fats.
Excretes by-products of red blood cells (RBCs), which give stools their dark pigment.
Diagnostics FOR GALLBLADDER DISORDERS
Ultrasonography: Most common and non-invasive diagnostic tool for gallstones.
Cholecystography: Imaging technique to visualize the gallbladder.
ERCP (Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography): Visualizes the bile and pancreatic ducts.
Percutaneous Transhepatic Cholangiography (PTC): Used when ERCP is not successful.
MRI: Imaging for more detailed views.
Blood Tests: To check for infection, liver function, and bilirubin levels.
X-ray: May show calcified stones.
Treatment FOR GALLBLADDER DISORDERS
Procedures:
ERCP/PTC: Removal of stones through endoscopy or percutaneous methods.
Extracorporeal Lithotripsy (ECLS): Uses shock waves to break up stones.
Nasogastric Tube: For decompression if needed.
Nutritional Therapy:
Low-fat, low-cholesterol diet
Avoid alcohol, gas-forming, and fried foods
Drug Therapy:
Antibiotics (for infection)
Lipid/cholesterol-lowering drugs
Antispasmodics
Analgesics for pain management
Post-Operative/Post-Procedural Care FOR GALLBLADDER DISORDERS
Assessment: Monitor vitals, oxygen saturation, and for any signs of complications.
Biliary Drainage: Monitor for T-tube drainage.
Pain Control: Administer analgesics as needed.
I&O: Monitor fluid balance.
Encourage Activity: Early ambulation to prevent complications.
Health Promotion:
Maintain a low-fat diet
Achieve an ideal weight
Limit pregnancies (increased risk of gallstones)
Patient Teaching:
Cough and deep breathing exercises
Report fever, jaundice, pruritus, dark-colored urine, or pale stools (signs of obstruction).
