Week 5 - GI Elimination Concept Intro Flashcards
what is elimination
- the removal, clearance, and separation of matter
what are the 4 processes that occur in the GI system
- ingestion
- digestion
- absorption
- elimination
what is the main function of the GI system
- provide nutrients to the body
what is considered the GI system
- GI tract (extends from mouth the anus)
- plus associated organs
where is waste formed?
- in the colon, in the form of stool
where does waste from the colon move through? how?
- moves thru the intestine
- propelled by sm. m contractions called parastalsis
when can we see alterations in GI elimination?
- if it moves thru the intestine too fast
- or too slow
describe the scope of elimination
- ranges from efficient elimination or stool to impaired
what are the 6 categories of alterations in GI elimination
- control
- retention
- discomfort
- infection
- neoplasm
- organ failure
what is it called if we lose control of our elimination? what causes this?
- loss of control = incontinence
- includes leakage to no control
- occurs w loss of sphincter ocntrol
what is retention
- when stool sits in the colon longer than normal
what is a consequence of retention
- sits in too long = more water absorbed = stool becomes harder, drier, and more difficult to pass = impaction
what can cause retention
- can be a side effect of meds/blockage
- urge to defecate is ignored
describe discomfort that can be associated w altered elimination
- flatus
- abdominal cramping
- diarrhea
what can cause discomfort with altered GI elimination
- injury to anus (hemorrhoids, fissures)