Nausea/Vomiting, Diarrhea and Intestinal Gas Flashcards
Describe the pathophysiology of Nausea and Vomiting
different areas in the body provide input to the central nervous system (CNS), specifically the lateral reticular formation of the medulla oblongata in the brain stem (vomiting center) and send signals to the GI tract
Define: Nausea
subjective feeling of a person’s need to vomit
Define: Retching
involuntary contraction of the diaphragm and abdomen
Define: Vomiting
physical expulsion of stomach, esophageal and oropharyngeal contents
What are the complications of nausea and vomiting?
particularly concerned about complication in pediatric and geriatric populations. dehydration, aspiration, electrolyte and/or acid-base disorders, malnutrition, mallory-weiss syndrome
Name the exclusions for self-care of nausea and vomiting in adults:
-diabetic pt with urine ketone or high blood glucose with signs of dehydration
-food poisoning that does not resolve in 24 hours
-nausea and vomiting w/ fever and/or diarrhea
-severe abdominal pain (possible appendicitis)
-blood in vomit
-yellow skin/eye discoloration and dark urine
-stiff neck w/ or w/o headache and sensitivity to light
-head injury
-pt w/ glaucoma, BPH, chronic bronchitis, emphysema, or asthma (bc we cannot give antihistamines)
-nausea and vomiting causes by health issues and disorders
-nausea and vomiting that is drug-induced
What patients can we treat with symptoms of nausea and vomiting?
motion sickness, pregnancy (mild-moderate), acute viral gastroenteritis (mild-moderate dehydration), food poisoning (within 24 hours), nausea associated with overeating and indigestion
Describe: Motion Sickness
occurs when there is a neural mismatch between visual and vestibular stimuli. most common in children 2-12 and more common in women than men
What are drug targets to treat motion sickness?
acetylcholine and histamine
What are nonpharmacological treatment options for motion sickness?
-avoid reading during travel
-keep line of vision fairly straight forward
-avoid excess food or alcohol before and during travel
-stay where motion is least experienced (ex.front of car)
-avoid strong odor (food or tobacco smoke)
-be in control of the vehicle if possible
-acupressure
MOA: Acupressure
places direct pressure on pericardium-6 point on either wrist
Indication: Antihistamines
prevention and treatment of nausea, vomiting, or dizziness associated with motion sickness
MOA: Antihistamines
depress labyrinth excitability caused by increased histamine levels in the hypothalamus, pons, and medulla as a result of certain motions
Side Effects: Antihistamines
-drowsiness
-anticholinergic effects (dry mouth, blurred vision, urinary retention, constipation= especially in elderly)
-paradoxical stimulatory reaction = restlessness, alertness
Warning/Precautions: Antihistamines
-avoid drinking alcohol, driving a vehicle, or operating heavy machinery
-caution in children and elderly due to increased risk of side effects
-avoid in patients with glaucoma or BPH and use caution in patients with respiratory conditions
-avoid in lactating women
What are nonpharmacological treatment options for nausea/vomiting associated with overeating and upset stomach?
avoid known disagreeable foods such as coffee, tea, alcohol, smoking, and NSAIDs, also reduce stress, and weight loss
What OTC products can be used to treat nausea and vomiting associated with overeating and upset stomach?
histamines, antacids, bismuth subsalicylate, phosphorated carbohydrate solution
Indication: Bismuth subsalicylate (Pepto-Bismol)
nausea associated with indigestion, heartburn, and fullness caused by overindulgence in food and drink, and diarrhea
Dosing: Bismuth subsalicylate (Pepto-Bismol)
adults (children <12 yo not recommended): 262-525 mg every 30 mins-1 hour AS NEEDED. max 8 doses per day for 2 days max
Contraindications: Bismuth subsalicylate (Pepto-Bismol)
children <12 years old, history of severe GI bleeds, and pt with salicylate allergy, avoid in pregnancy and lactation, not recommended for patients on long-term aspirin regimen