ACUTE GASTROENTERITIS FOR PEDIATRICS

Jamila B. Mohammad BSN2-k

DEFINITION

Gastroenteritis is an inflammation of the stomach and intestines that causes diarrhea, vomiting, nausea and other symptoms of digestive upset. In the industrialized world, the most common causes of gastroenteritis in children are viruses, bacteria (food poisoning), and intestinal parasites.

ETIOLOGY
Infectious agents (viruses, bacteria, and parasites) - Lack of clean water - Crowding - Poor hygiene - Nutritional deficiency - Poor sanitation - Administration of antibiotics - Viruses cause 70%to 80% of infectious diarrhea

MICROORGANISMS CAUSING A.G.E

Viruses Bacteria

Generally, the two main types of viruses that cause gastroenteritis include the rotavirus and the norovirus.

Common bacteria that cause acute gastroenteritis include E. coli, Campylobacter jejuni, Samonella and Shigella

Parasites

Parasites such as Giardia lamblia and Cryptosporidium parvum can cause acute gastroenteritis

CLINICAL MANIFESTATIONS
In children, symptoms of gastroenteritis include: Mild diarrhea Abdominal pain Cramps Vomiting Irritability (fussiness) Poor appetite Some children also have a low-grade fever or complain of a headache.

PATHOPHYSIOLOGY-DIARRHEA

Pathogen invades the mucosal cells of the GI tract

Normal sodium and osmotic balance are disrupted Intestinal fluid output overwhelms the absorptive ability of the GI tract.

NURSING ROLE IN MANAGEMENT OF

DIARRHEA ASSESSMENT: Observe general appearance and behavior. Physical assessment include: VITAL SIGNS , WEIGHING HISTORY TAKING

NURSING DIAGNOSIS
Diarrhea related to infectious process Subjective cues: Abdominal pain Urgency, cramping Objective cues: Hyperactive bowel sounds Atleast three loose liquids stools per day GOAL: The child will reestablish and maintain normal pattern of bowel functioning.

NURSING INTERVENTIONS AND RATIONALES

Obtain baseline vital signs and monitor every 24 hours. Observe stools for amount, color, consistency, odor, and frequency Test stools for occult blood Monitor results of stool culture and sample for ova and parasites.

Fluid and electrolyte imbalancescan alter vital body functions Aids in the diagnosis and in monitoring the childs status

Frequent defecation and some infectious organisms can cause bleeding

Rapid notification of the physician will facilitate treatment. Helps prevent transmission of microorganisms.
Prevents exposure of other patients and staff

Wash hands well before an d after contact with the child. Isolate the child until the cause of the diarrhea is determined.

CONT.

Assist the child with toileting and hygiene

Administer prescribed oral rehydration and intravenous solutions. Notify the physician if diarrhea persists, stool characteristics change, or other symptoms of dehydration/electrolyte imbalance occur.

The child may be weak, incontinent, physically impaired, or anxious and require assistance to use the bathroom Provides necessary fluids and nutrients Ensures early intervention

PREVENTION
Always wash your hands before eating and after using the comfort room. Eat only properly cooked and stored food. Bleach soiled linens used. Have vaccinations for salmonella typhi, vibrio cholerae, and rotavirus.

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