Peritonitis

Question 1

What is peritonitis

Answer 1

Inflammation of the peritoneum

Question 2

what is the peritoneum

Answer 2

serous membrane that lines the abdominal cavity and organs

Question 3

Etiology

Answer 3

mostly due to bacteria (E.coli) or chemical irritation (enzyme or bile)

Way for agent to enter abdominal cavity- perforated ulcer/ruptured appendix

PID (ascending infection that causes abscesses)

Colonoscopy: when not done properly and ruptures the side

Question 4

Patho

Answer 4

agent impacts the peritoneum = inflammation

large structure - easily speeds and rapid absorption of toxins

thick exudate forms

SNS limits GI motility

Question 5

What are two compensatory occurrences

Answer 5

SNS limits GI motility
- content won’t move out
thick exudate formation
- seals perforation and localizes inflammation (can’t spread as easily)

Question 6

Manifestations

Answer 6

SEVERE!
fluid shifts
altered perfusion (blood shunting)
dyspnea

Question 7

Why does a fluid shift occur

Answer 7

ileus (painful obstruction) stops peristalsis - fluid/air is retained = increased intraluminal pressure = increase fluid secretions

Question 8

why is blood shunted

Answer 8

its shunted to the site of inflammation

Question 9

why does dyspnea occur

Answer 9

painful to breath as it irritates the peritoneum

Question 10

Treatment

Answer 10

IV AB
anti inflammatories
fluid/electrolytes
pain management
surgery if indicated