Recognizing Signs and Symptoms of Bowel Obstruction in Nursing Home Residents

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Recognizing Signs and Symptoms of Bowel Obstruction in Nursing Home Residents

Date: 21 August, 2023 | Blog | Nursing Home Neglect | Bowel Blockage | By: Sanga Turnbull

Introduction

Bowel obstruction is a potentially life-threatening medical condition that can occur in elderly patients, including those residing in nursing homes. This condition involves partial or complete blockage of the small or large intestine, hindering the passage of food, fluids, and gases. Early detection and intervention are vital for a favorable outcome

KEY SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS

Abdominal Pain and Discomfort

• Characteristic: Intermittent cramps that may be severe and sharp and continue in frequency without an improvement in symptoms.
• Nursing Home Context: Older adults may not express pain in typical ways and may only show increased restlessness or a decrease in functional abilities. They may also complain to other care givers. Therefore, it is critical that facility communication take place across different departments, shifts and employees to timely intervene on the resident’s behalf.

Vomiting and Nausea

• Characteristic: Vomiting food, fluid, loss of appetite

Abdominal Distension

• Characteristic: Swelling or bloating of the abdomen along with the presence of pain in severe cases.

Constipation or Diarrhea

• Characteristic: Inability to pass stool or gas; paradoxically, some may experience episodes of watery diarrhea.
• Nursing Home Context: Given that constipation is relatively common in older adults, differentiate whether it's a routine issue or a symptom of a more serious problem like bowel obstruction.

Change in Bowel Sounds

• Characteristic: High-pitched or absent bowel sounds on auscultation.
• Nursing Home Context: This may require a more thorough examination as background noise and patient non-compliance can make this difficult to assess in a nursing home setting.

Additional Symptoms

• Loss of appetite
• Fatigue and weakness
• Rapid heartbeat

Immediate Actions and Consultations

If a nursing home resident displays symptoms indicative of bowel obstruction, immediate medical consultation is necessary. Diagnostic tests such as X-rays, CT scans, or ultrasounds, along with blood tests, are often required for confirmation.

Conclusion

Recognizing the signs and symptoms of bowel obstruction in nursing home residents is crucial for timely intervention. Given the unique challenges of assessing older adults—who may have multiple comorbidities and atypical symptom presentation—healthcare providers must exercise heightened vigilance. Early detection can significantly improve the prognosis and quality of life for affected individuals.

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