Peritonitis: Surgical Management

Question 1

Surgical Management

Answer 1

1. Abd surgery guided by exploratory laparotomy
2. Appendectomy if (+) appendicitis
3. Colon resection with or without colostomy if (+) bowel perforation

Question 2

Nursing Management post-op

Answer 2

1. Patient in semi-fowler’s position
2. Perform peritoneal irrigation as prescribed
3. Check for presence of abd distention or pain (suggestive of irrigant retention)
4. Assess incision, dressing, and drains
5. Instruct client to avoid lifting for at least 6 weeks

Question 3

Nursing Management post-op

Why semi-fowler’s position for patient?

Answer 3

To promote drainage of peritoneal contents and allow adequate lung expansion

Question 4

Complications

Answer 4

1. Sepsis - major cause and death
2. Wound evisceration and dehiscence