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Abdominal Pain Nursing Assessment: A Critical Analysis of Current Trends
Author: Dr. Eleanor Vance, RN, PhD, FAAN (Fellow of the American Academy of Nursing), Professor of Nursing, specializing in gastroenterological nursing and assessment.
Publisher: Wolters Kluwer Health – a reputable publisher of medical and nursing textbooks and journals, known for its rigorous peer-review process and high-quality publications.
Editor: Dr. Amelia Reed, RN, MSN, CEN (Certified Emergency Nurse), experienced editor with over 15 years of experience in nursing education and publication.
Keywords: abdominal pain nursing assessment, acute abdominal pain, abdominal pain assessment, nursing assessment, pain management, gastrointestinal assessment, abdominal exam, diagnostic reasoning, patient history, vital signs, focused assessment.
Summary: This analysis explores the crucial role of abdominal pain nursing assessment in contemporary healthcare. It examines the evolution of assessment techniques, the impact of technological advancements, and the challenges faced by nurses in accurately diagnosing and managing abdominal pain. The article emphasizes the importance of a comprehensive, patient-centered approach, highlighting the integration of subjective and objective data, clinical reasoning, and collaborative practice to optimize patient outcomes. Furthermore, it discusses the implications of emerging trends like telehealth and the need for ongoing professional development in this critical area of nursing practice.
1. Introduction: The Significance of Abdominal Pain Nursing Assessment
Abdominal pain is a ubiquitous presenting complaint in healthcare settings, encompassing a wide spectrum of pathologies, ranging from benign self-limiting conditions to life-threatening emergencies. Effective abdominal pain nursing assessment is therefore paramount, forming the cornerstone of timely diagnosis, appropriate treatment, and improved patient outcomes. This critical analysis delves into the multifaceted aspects of abdominal pain nursing assessment, considering its evolution, current practices, challenges, and future directions within the context of contemporary healthcare trends. A thorough and systematic abdominal pain nursing assessment requires a blend of skillful clinical examination, insightful interpretation of patient history, and astute integration of diagnostic findings.
2. Evolution of Abdominal Pain Nursing Assessment Techniques
Historically, abdominal pain assessment relied heavily on physical examination techniques, such as palpation, percussion, and auscultation. However, the advent of advanced diagnostic imaging, such as ultrasound, CT scans, and MRI, has revolutionized the process. These technologies provide detailed visualization of abdominal organs, facilitating more precise diagnosis and reducing the reliance solely on subjective data. Nevertheless, a skilled abdominal pain nursing assessment remains crucial, guiding the selection of appropriate investigations and informing clinical decision-making. The interpretation of imaging results is often dependent on the initial assessment findings from the nurse.
3. The Comprehensive Abdominal Pain Nursing Assessment: A Step-by-Step Approach
A comprehensive abdominal pain nursing assessment encompasses a systematic approach integrating several key components:
Patient History: This involves a detailed exploration of the pain's characteristics (location, onset, duration, quality, severity, radiation, aggravating/relieving factors), associated symptoms (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, fever, urinary symptoms), past medical history, medication history, allergies, and social history. A skilled nurse utilizes effective communication techniques to elicit accurate and reliable information, considering cultural factors and patient communication barriers. This thorough history-taking is a fundamental element of any robust abdominal pain nursing assessment.
Physical Examination: A systematic physical examination is crucial. This involves the assessment of vital signs (heart rate, blood pressure, respiratory rate, temperature), inspection (skin color, abdominal distension, scars, rashes), palpation (tenderness, rigidity, masses), percussion (tympany, dullness), and auscultation (bowel sounds, bruits). The nurse's skill in performing a thorough and gentle abdominal exam is crucial to gain the patient's trust and elicit important clinical findings, all elements of the crucial abdominal pain nursing assessment process.
Diagnostic Tests: Based on the initial assessment, appropriate diagnostic tests are ordered to confirm or refute suspected diagnoses. This may include blood tests (complete blood count, liver function tests, amylase/lipase), urine analysis, stool analysis, and imaging studies. The timely and appropriate ordering of these investigations is heavily influenced by the initial abdominal pain nursing assessment.
Documentation: Meticulous documentation of all assessment findings, interventions, and patient responses is essential. This provides a clear and concise record for healthcare professionals involved in the patient’s care, ensuring continuity and improving communication. Accurate documentation forms a vital part of a comprehensive abdominal pain nursing assessment.
4. Challenges in Abdominal Pain Nursing Assessment
Several challenges complicate abdominal pain nursing assessment:
Vague and non-specific symptoms: Abdominal pain can be a non-specific symptom, making accurate diagnosis difficult. Multiple conditions can present with similar symptoms, requiring careful differentiation.
Subjectivity of pain: Pain is a subjective experience, varying greatly between individuals. Accurate assessment necessitates employing validated pain scales and employing strategies to address potential biases.
Comorbidities: Many patients present with multiple medical conditions, complicating the assessment and management of abdominal pain.
Patient communication barriers: Language barriers, cognitive impairment, and fear can hinder effective communication and accurate information gathering.
Limited resources: Access to advanced diagnostic tools and expertise may be limited in certain settings, affecting the comprehensiveness of the assessment.
5. The Impact of Technology on Abdominal Pain Nursing Assessment
Technological advancements have significantly impacted abdominal pain nursing assessment. Point-of-care ultrasound, for example, is increasingly utilized by nurses to provide rapid bedside assessment of abdominal organs, guiding immediate management decisions. Telehealth platforms enable remote assessment and monitoring, particularly beneficial in rural or underserved communities. These technological improvements are enhancing the efficiency and accuracy of the abdominal pain nursing assessment process, leading to better patient outcomes.
6. The Role of Clinical Reasoning and Diagnostic Accuracy in Abdominal Pain Nursing Assessment
Effective abdominal pain nursing assessment relies heavily on strong clinical reasoning skills. Nurses must systematically integrate subjective and objective data, consider differential diagnoses, and critically evaluate the relevance of each piece of information. This process, informed by evidence-based practice and clinical experience, enhances diagnostic accuracy and guides appropriate interventions.
7. Collaborative Practice and the Abdominal Pain Nursing Assessment
Collaborative practice is essential for optimal patient management. Nurses work closely with physicians, surgeons, and other healthcare professionals to ensure coordinated care and timely interventions. Effective communication and information sharing between team members are crucial aspects of managing patients presenting with abdominal pain, building upon the foundation provided by the abdominal pain nursing assessment.
8. Future Trends in Abdominal Pain Nursing Assessment
Future trends in abdominal pain nursing assessment are likely to include:
Increased use of point-of-care ultrasound: Broader adoption of ultrasound by nurses will allow for more immediate assessments and improved diagnostic accuracy.
Integration of artificial intelligence: AI algorithms may assist in interpreting data from various sources, improving the accuracy and efficiency of the assessment process.
Enhanced telehealth capabilities: Telehealth will continue to expand, offering remote assessment and monitoring of patients experiencing abdominal pain.
Focus on patient-centered care: The focus will remain on patient-centered care, ensuring a holistic approach that respects individual needs and preferences.
Continued professional development: Ongoing education and training are crucial to equip nurses with the necessary knowledge and skills to perform effective abdominal pain nursing assessments.
9. Conclusion
Abdominal pain nursing assessment is a critical skill requiring a comprehensive, systematic, and patient-centered approach. The integration of subjective and objective data, coupled with strong clinical reasoning and collaborative practice, is crucial for accurate diagnosis and effective management. While technological advancements continue to transform the process, the core principles of thorough history taking, meticulous physical examination, and thoughtful clinical judgment remain paramount in ensuring optimal patient outcomes. The future of abdominal pain nursing assessment hinges on ongoing professional development, embracing technological innovations, and maintaining a commitment to evidence-based practice.
FAQs
1. What are the most common causes of abdominal pain? Causes range from gastroenteritis and constipation to appendicitis, cholecystitis, and bowel obstructions. Accurate diagnosis requires a thorough abdominal pain nursing assessment.
2. How is the severity of abdominal pain assessed? Pain scales (e.g., numerical rating scale, visual analog scale) are used. The nurse also assesses the impact of pain on the patient's daily activities and overall well-being as part of the abdominal pain nursing assessment.
3. What are the red flags indicating a serious abdominal condition? Red flags include sudden, severe pain; fever; rigidity; guarding; signs of shock; and altered bowel habits. These necessitate urgent medical attention.
4. What is the role of the nurse in managing abdominal pain? Nurses conduct the initial abdominal pain nursing assessment, administer pain medication, monitor vital signs, educate patients, and collaborate with physicians to provide holistic care.
5. How can cultural factors influence abdominal pain assessment? Cultural factors can influence pain expression and symptom reporting, necessitating culturally sensitive communication strategies during the abdominal pain nursing assessment.
6. What is the importance of documentation in abdominal pain assessment? Meticulous documentation provides a clear record of assessment findings, interventions, and patient responses, ensuring continuity of care and facilitating effective communication among healthcare professionals.
7. How does point-of-care ultrasound impact abdominal pain assessment? It enables rapid bedside assessment of abdominal organs, potentially improving diagnostic accuracy and facilitating timely intervention.
8. What are the limitations of using only physical examination for assessing abdominal pain? Physical examination alone can be subjective and lacks the detail provided by imaging studies. This is why a comprehensive abdominal pain nursing assessment includes multiple data points.
9. How can nurses improve their skills in abdominal pain assessment? Through continuing education, participation in simulation training, mentorship from experienced clinicians, and engaging in evidence-based practice.
Related Articles:
1. "Acute Abdominal Pain in the Emergency Department: A Practical Guide for Nurses": This article focuses on the specific challenges and protocols for assessing and managing acute abdominal pain in emergency settings.
2. "The Use of Point-of-Care Ultrasound in Abdominal Pain Assessment": This article explores the role and benefits of using point-of-care ultrasound in improving the speed and accuracy of abdominal pain assessment.
3. "Cultural Considerations in Abdominal Pain Assessment: A Cross-Cultural Perspective": This article examines the impact of cultural factors on pain perception and communication, influencing the abdominal pain nursing assessment.
4. "Abdominal Pain in Older Adults: Unique Challenges and Assessment Strategies": This article addresses the unique considerations for assessing abdominal pain in older patients, focusing on age-related physiological changes.
5. "The Role of Diagnostic Imaging in the Management of Abdominal Pain": This article delves into the various types of imaging used to diagnose abdominal conditions, as well as their integration within the broader abdominal pain nursing assessment.
6. "Pain Management Strategies for Patients with Abdominal Pain": This article explores various pain management techniques, including pharmacological and non-pharmacological approaches, to address pain associated with abdominal conditions.
7. "Case Studies in Abdominal Pain Assessment and Management": This article presents multiple case studies to illustrate the practical application of abdominal pain nursing assessment principles and decision-making processes.
8. "Telehealth and Remote Monitoring for Patients with Abdominal Pain": This article discusses the benefits and challenges of utilizing telehealth for managing patients with abdominal pain, including remote monitoring and virtual consultations.
9. "Evidence-Based Practice in Abdominal Pain Assessment and Management": This article synthesizes current research and evidence-based guidelines to inform best practices in abdominal pain assessment and management.
| abdominal pain nursing assessment: Nursing the Acutely Ill Adult: Case Book Karen Page, Aidin McKinney, 2012-09-16 Nursing the Acutely ill Adult is a comprehensive text … Each chapter draws on the clinical and academic expertise of the author and follows a structured approach that explores the case problems, altered physiology and nursing interventions and care. It is an ideal reference resource for nurses who wish to reflect and explore the evidence base underpinning the complexities of nursing acutely ill adults. Alison Eddleston, Senior Lecturer Acute, Operative and Critical Care, School of Health, University of Central Lancashire, UK This informative case-based book encourages the reader to critically consider the assessment and care needed by acutely ill adult patients with a variety of underlying conditions. Nursing and other healthcare students … should find that the book helps with the development of an integrated mindset and evidence-based decision making. Janice Christie, Senior Lecturer in Public Health and Primary Care, City University London, UK The book will enable practitioners to approach the assessment of patients with a range of acute conditions in a structured manner. The case scenarios are very realistic and there are good explanations of underlying patho-physiology. There is also a well structured explanation of investigations and priority interventions … This book will enable the development of expertise in assessment and prioritising of care in a range of settings. Laurence Leonard, Senior Lecturer, Kingston University and St George's, University of London, UK The complexity of caring for patients who become acutely ill or have deteriorated can be a daunting challenge for nurses. Part of a case book series, this accessible book contains 17 in-depth case studies relating to care of the acutely ill adult. The cases combine pathophysiology, pharmacology and nursing care in realistic clinical settings, providing an engaging resource for nursing students taking acute care modules. This handy book: Follows a step-by-step question and answer format Facilitates the application of theory to practice through the use of clinical case studies Considers the most common acute illness scenarios that are frequently encountered by practitioners Integrates knowledge of pathological processes, applied pharmacology and related nursing implications to acute illness Nursing the Acutely Ill Adult: Case Book offers a unique way of relating theory to practice, making it key reading for undergraduate nursing students. It will also be beneficial to students in areas such as intensive care as well as nurse educators looking for a way to bridge the gap between the classroom and clinical practice. Contributors: Patrick Gallagher, Niall McKenna, Billie Joan Rice. |
| abdominal pain nursing assessment: Symptom to Diagnosis Scott D. C. Stern, Adam S. Cifu, Diane Altkorn, 2006 This innovative introduction to patient encounters utilizes an evidence-based step-by-step process that teaches students how to evaluate, diagnose, and treat patients based on the clinical complaints they present. By applying this approach, students are able to make appropriate judgments about specific diseases and prescribe the most effective therapy. (Product description). |
| abdominal pain nursing assessment: Fragility Fracture Nursing Karen Hertz, Julie Santy-Tomlinson, 2018-06-15 This open access book aims to provide a comprehensive but practical overview of the knowledge required for the assessment and management of the older adult with or at risk of fragility fracture. It considers this from the perspectives of all of the settings in which this group of patients receive nursing care. Globally, a fragility fracture is estimated to occur every 3 seconds. This amounts to 25 000 fractures per day or 9 million per year. The financial costs are reported to be: 32 billion EUR per year in Europe and 20 billon USD in the United States. As the population of China ages, the cost of hip fracture care there is likely to reach 1.25 billion USD by 2020 and 265 billion by 2050 (International Osteoporosis Foundation 2016). Consequently, the need for nursing for patients with fragility fracture across the world is immense. Fragility fracture is one of the foremost challenges for health care providers, and the impact of each one of those expected 9 million hip fractures is significant pain, disability, reduced quality of life, loss of independence and decreased life expectancy. There is a need for coordinated, multi-disciplinary models of care for secondary fracture prevention based on the increasing evidence that such models make a difference. There is also a need to promote and facilitate high quality, evidence-based effective care to those who suffer a fragility fracture with a focus on the best outcomes for recovery, rehabilitation and secondary prevention of further fracture. The care community has to understand better the experience of fragility fracture from the perspective of the patient so that direct improvements in care can be based on the perspectives of the users. This book supports these needs by providing a comprehensive approach to nursing practice in fragility fracture care. |
| abdominal pain nursing assessment: Acute Pain Management Raymond S. Sinatra, 2009-04-27 This textbook provides an overview of pain management useful to specialists as well as non-specialists, surgeons, and nursing staff. |
| abdominal pain nursing assessment: Medical-Surgical Nursing Sharon Mantik Lewis, Margaret McLean Heitkemper, Jean Foret Giddens, Shannon Ruff Dirksen, 2003-12-01 Package includes Medical-Surgical Nursing: Assessment and Management of Clinical Problems Two Volume text and Virtual Clinical Excursions 2.0 |
| abdominal pain nursing assessment: Differential Diagnosis of Chest Pain Umashankar Lakshmanadoss, 2020-07-01 This book aims to provide an excellent overview of the differential diagnosis and approach to chest pain in various clinical settings. This book is divided into two sections including the introduction and the approach to chest pain. Our introductory chapter starts with the basic principles of statistics and its application in various diagnostic modalities of heart disease. Our authors present a nice approach to patients presenting with chest pain in various scenarios. We have also included a chapter describing GERD, which could present as chest pain and another chapter describing aortic dissection, which is a life-threatening disease presenting with chest pain. We hope that this book will serve as an accessible handbook on the differential diagnosis of chest pain. |
| abdominal pain nursing assessment: Davis's Drug Guide for Rehabilitation Professionals Charles D. Ciccone, 2013-03-21 A one-of-a-kind guide specifically for rehabilitation specialists! A leader in pharmacology and rehabilitation, Charles Ciccone, PT, PhD offers a concise, easy-to-access resource that delivers the drug information rehabilitation specialists need to know. Organized alphabetically by generic name, over 800 drug monographs offer the most up-to-date information on drug indications, therapeutic effects, potential adverse reactions, and much more! A list of implications for physical therapy at the end of each monograph helps you provide the best possible care for your patients. It’s the perfect companion to Pharmacology in Rehabilitation, 4th Edition! |
| abdominal pain nursing assessment: Postoperative Pain Management F. Michael Ferrante, Timothy R. VadeBoncouer, 1993 |
| abdominal pain nursing assessment: Cancer Pain Management Deborah B. McGuire, Connie Henke Yarbro, Betty Ferrell, 1995 Cancer Pain Management, Second Edition will substantially advance pain education. The unique combination of authors -- an educator, a leading practitioner and administrator, and a research scientist -- provides comprehensive, authoritative coverage in addressing this important aspect of cancer care. The contributors, acknowledged experts in their areas, address a wide scope of issues. Educating health care providers to better assess and manage pain and improve patientsrsquo; and familiesrsquo; coping strategies are primary goals of this book. Developing research-based clinical guidelines and increasing funding for research is also covered. Ethical issues surrounding pain management and health policy implications are also explored. |
| abdominal pain nursing assessment: Imaging of Acute Appendicitis in Adults and Children Caroline KEYZER, Pierre Alain Gevenois, 2011-09-20 This book is a comprehensive account of imaging of acute appendicitis and other appendiceal diseases. Background information is first provided on clinical presentation, perforation and negative appendectomy rates, and treatment options. The role of each imaging modality – radiography, ultrasound, CT, and MRI – is then considered separately in adults and children with suspected acute appendicitis. Many high-quality illustrations are included, and detailed information is provided on appropriate protocols and radiation saving. Further chapters addresses the spontaneously resolving and chronic appendicitis as well as other appendiceal lesions and review the findings of evidence-based medicine and cost-effectiveness analyses. Emergency physicians, pediatricians, surgeons, and radiologists will all find this book to be an excellent source of information and guidance. |
| abdominal pain nursing assessment: CURRENT Diagnosis & Treatment of Sexually Transmitted Diseases Jeffrey D. Klausner, Edward W. Hook, 2007-04-06 Get problem-oriented and disease-specific guidance in treating STDs-in one quick-access source Featuring the trusted, practical format of the CURRENT series, this authoritative, quick-access guide delivers a top-to-bottom overview of STDs commonly encountered in clinical practice. The book begins with an insightful introduction to the field that emphasizes the patient-doctor relationship, and then explores clinical problems with STDs in terms of diagnostic, management, and treatment considerations. Features A-to-Z, up-to-the-minute coverage of common STDs-filled with crucial point-of-care guidelines A focus on prevention interventions, including counseling, in recognition of the need to change high-risk sexual behaviors Practical diagnostic algorithms that summarize key protocols and facilitate patient management Detailed, easy-to-locate treatment tables that list specific drugs (generic and trade names), doses, and schedules A thought-provoking final chapter that includes a brief discussion of the latest STD research, plus unresolved questions and future concerns Useful appendices that include diagnostic protocols, treatment tables, and websites for further information Authoritative, on-the-spot information you can quickly apply to your practice - without sifting through pages of data An essential clinical companion for internists, family physicians, pediatricians, nurse practitioners, obstetricians-gynecologists, HIV care specialists, and other healthcare professionals who see patients with STDs Turn to any chapter on specific STDs, and you'll find expert perspectives on biology, epidemiology, clinical manifestations, diagnosis, treatment, prevention, and issues related to special populations |
| abdominal pain nursing assessment: Advanced Paediatric Life Support Advanced Life Support Group (ALSG), 2008-04-15 This international bestseller covers the full advanced paediatric life support course, with the core sections for the abbreviated one-day course clearly picked out. The book provides practical guidance for managing children and infants in the first life-threatening golden hour. This new edition goes beyond immediate management to include stabilisation and transfer. |
| abdominal pain nursing assessment: Variceal Hemorrhage Roberto de Franchis, Alessandra Dell’Era, 2014-01-25 Variceal Hemorrhage provides an update of the evidence concerning several aspects of variceal hemorrhage. The book features new information on natural history, diagnosis of esophageal varices, assessment of the risk of bleeding and identification of high risk groups and patients who may benefit or be harmed from different treatments. The volume also presents a critical analysis of the different steps in the management of acute variceal bleeding. Authored by the most prominent world experts in their areas of expertise, Variceal Hemorrhage serves as a very useful reference for gastroenterologists, GI surgeons, residents in internal medicine and physicians dealing with and interested in the different aspects of this severe medical emergency. |
| abdominal pain nursing assessment: Every Patient Tells a Story Lisa Sanders, 2009-08-11 A riveting exploration of the most difficult and important part of what doctors do, by Yale School of Medicine physician Dr. Lisa Sanders, author of the monthly New York Times Magazine column Diagnosis, the inspiration for the hit Fox TV series House, M.D. The experience of being ill can be like waking up in a foreign country. Life, as you formerly knew it, is on hold while you travel through this other world as unknown as it is unexpected. When I see patients in the hospital or in my office who are suddenly, surprisingly ill, what they really want to know is, ‘What is wrong with me?’ They want a road map that will help them manage their new surroundings. The ability to give this unnerving and unfamiliar place a name, to know it—on some level—restores a measure of control, independent of whether or not that diagnosis comes attached to a cure. Because, even today, a diagnosis is frequently all a good doctor has to offer. A healthy young man suddenly loses his memory—making him unable to remember the events of each passing hour. Two patients diagnosed with Lyme disease improve after antibiotic treatment—only to have their symptoms mysteriously return. A young woman lies dying in the ICU—bleeding, jaundiced, incoherent—and none of her doctors know what is killing her. In Every Patient Tells a Story, Dr. Lisa Sanders takes us bedside to witness the process of solving these and other diagnostic dilemmas, providing a firsthand account of the expertise and intuition that lead a doctor to make the right diagnosis. Never in human history have doctors had the knowledge, the tools, and the skills that they have today to diagnose illness and disease. And yet mistakes are made, diagnoses missed, symptoms or tests misunderstood. In this high-tech world of modern medicine, Sanders shows us that knowledge, while essential, is not sufficient to unravel the complexities of illness. She presents an unflinching look inside the detective story that marks nearly every illness—the diagnosis—revealing the combination of uncertainty and intrigue that doctors face when confronting patients who are sick or dying. Through dramatic stories of patients with baffling symptoms, Sanders portrays the absolute necessity and surprising difficulties of getting the patient’s story, the challenges of the physical exam, the pitfalls of doctor-to-doctor communication, the vagaries of tests, and the near calamity of diagnostic errors. In Every Patient Tells a Story, Dr. Sanders chronicles the real-life drama of doctors solving these difficult medical mysteries that not only illustrate the art and science of diagnosis, but often save the patients’ lives. |
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| abdominal pain nursing assessment: Pain Models Hermann O. Handwerker, Lars Arendt-Nielson, 2015-06-01 The neurobiology and mechanisms discovered in animals often do not translate to patients with a chronic pain condition. To help researchers and clinicians develop and use models that can help translate data from animals into humans, this book presents experimental animal models, with a focus on how they may translate into humans human experimental pain models, including details about pain induction and assessment human surrogate pain models clinical applications of pain models models that may link mechanisms of pain and pruritus Pain Models contains 29 chapters by internationally recognized experts. It is a comprehensive survey of pain models at different levels, and commentaries by clinicians directly address clinical perspectives. This unique book is unprecedented in its content. It's a quick reminder of the hard work needed to investigate the complex issue of pain perception. With the advent of increasingly sensitive noninvasive investigational tools, the authors want readers to know that basic research is still needed to help develop new drugs. This book will enrich anyone who wishes to know all that goes into conducting pain research with a lab-based pain model. |
| abdominal pain nursing assessment: General Practice John Murtagh, 1998 From a leading figure in Australian medicine comes this edition of thi s immmensely user-friendly reference that employs a symptom-based appr oach to clinical practice. For the full range of conditions met in pri mary practice, you'll review approach to the patient, the physical exa m, probable causes, differential diagnosis, and treatment strategies. Throughout, Dr. Murtagh adds his own clinical pearls that are both ins ightful and a delight to read. Superb illustrations demonstrate examin ation technqiue and abundant use of tables and charts makes diagnosis quick and easy. Most importantly, the clinical insights of internation ally recognized authority Dr. John Murtagh make this a unique and usef ul resource for the physician, nurse practitioner or physician assista nt. |
| abdominal pain nursing assessment: Oxford Handbook of Critical Care Nursing Fiona Creed, Jessica Hargreaves, 2016 A practical, concise, easily accessible and evidence-based guide for all levels of nursing staff working in critical care environments. |
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| abdominal pain nursing assessment: Nursing Diagnoses 2015-17 NANDA International, 2014-08-01 Nursing Diagnoses: Definitions and Classification is the definitive guide to nursing diagnoses, as reviewed and approved by NANDA-I. The 2015–2017 edition of the classic and internationally recognised text has been rigorously updated and revised, and now provides more linguistically congruent diagnoses as a result of the Diagnostic Development Committee’s attentiveness to understanding the translation of the diagnostic label, definition, defining characteristics, related factors, and risk factors. Each of the 235 diagnoses presented are supported by definitions as well as defining characteristics and related factors, or risk factors. Each new and revised diagnosis is based on the latest global evidence, and approved by expert nurse diagnosticians, researchers, and educators. New to this edition: 26 brand new nursing diagnoses and 13 revised diagnoses Updates, changes, and revision to the vast majority of the nursing diagnosis definitions, in particular the Health Promotion and Risk Diagnoses A standardization of diagnostic indicator terms (defining characteristics, related factors, and risk factors) to further aid clarity for readers and clinicians All introductory chapters are written at an undergraduate nursing level, and provide critical information needed for nurses to understand assessment, its link to diagnosis, and the purpose and use of taxonomic structure for the nurse at the bedside A new chapter, focusing on Frequently Asked Questions, representing the most common questions received through the NANDA-I website, and at global conferences Five nursing diagnoses have been re-slotted within the NANDA-I taxonomy, following a review of the current taxonomic structure Coding of all diagnostic indicator terms is now available for those using electronic versions of the terminology Companion website featuring references from the book, video presentations, teaching tips, and links to taxonomy history and diagnosis submission/review process description www.wiley.com/go/nursingdiagnoses |
| abdominal pain nursing assessment: Open Abdomen Federico Coccolini, Rao Ivatury, Michael Sugrue, Luca Ansaloni, 2018-06-06 This book is the first available practical manual on the open abdomen. Practicing physicians, surgeons, anesthesiologists, nurses, and physiotherapists will find in it a ready source of information on all aspects of open abdomen management in a wide variety of settings. The coverage includes, for example, the open abdomen in trauma, intra-abdominal sepsis, and acute pancreatitis, step-by-step descriptions of different techniques with the aid of high-quality color figures, guidance on potential complications and their management, and features of management in different age groups. The book contents illustrate the most recent innovations and drawing upon a thorough and up-to-date literature review. Useful tips and tricks are highlighted, and the book is designed to support in daily decision making. The authors include worldwide opinion leaders in the field, guaranteeing the high scientific value of the content. |
| abdominal pain nursing assessment: Suggestions for Addressing Clinical and Non-Clinical Issues in Palliative Care Marco Cascella, Michael John Stones, 2021-07-21 Data from the World Health Organization indicate that about 40 million people worldwide require palliative care each year. We must face this enormous problem with appropriate welfare policies and training of up-to-date and competent personnel. In this context, a book that collects the experiences of authors with diverse backgrounds, and operating in different settings of palliative care, can be added to the many editorial products on the subject. Over five sections, this volume addresses such topics as palliative care in children, infants, and gynecologic oncology patients; the role of the caregiver; the use of drugs; and ethics, organization, and policy issues. Although this book should not be considered as an exhaustive treatise on palliative care, the many topics covered and the experience and competence of the authors involved make it a useful tool for those who are already experts in the field as well as those who are studying this field. |
| abdominal pain nursing assessment: Textbook of Paediatric Emergency Medicine E-Book George Jelinek, Ian Everitt, Jeremy Raftos, 2011-12-02 A comprehensive textbook of paediatric emergency medicine for trainee doctors - covers all the problems likely to present to a trainee in the emergency department. Short concise chapters, with key point boxes at the beginning - easy to use for the hard-pressed trainee. Aims to give a consensus approach to assessment and treatment, based on the latest evidence. Highlights areas of controversy. |
| abdominal pain nursing assessment: Emergency Nursing Care Gary Jones, Ruth Endacott, Robert Crouch, 2002-11 The field of accident and emergency nursing is a fast moving one. This comprehensive textbook is aimed at both the qualified or trainee nurse who has specialised, or is thinking of specialising, in accident and emergency care. The authors and editors are all experienced nurses and nurse-educators who aim to provide easy to read, and easy to find information about procedures, conditions and nursing skills that a newcomer to the field may not be familiar with, or with which he or she has only a superficial knowledge. Throughout the text, much use is made of illustrations, tables and boxes of key information, and a comprehensive list of references is included at the end of each chapter. |
| abdominal pain nursing assessment: Physical Assessment of the Newborn Ellen P. Tappero, DNP, RN, NNP-BC, Mary Ellen Honeyfield, DNP, RN, NNP-BC, 2014-09-01 Physical Assessment of the Newborn, 5th Edition, is a comprehensive text with a wealth of detailed information on the assessment of the newborn. This valuable and essential resource illustrates the principles and skills needed to gather assessment data systematically and accurately, and also provides a knowledge base for interpretation of this data. Coverage addresses: gestational assessment, neurologic assessment, neonatal history, assessment of the dysmorphic infant, and systemic evaluation of individual body systems, as well as key information on behavioral and pain assessment, including the use of specific tools with various groups ranging from term to extremely preterm infants. Numerous tables, figures, illustrations, and photos, many of them in full color, are a major strength that enhances the book’s usefulness as a clinical resource. The text is an excellent teaching tool and resource for anyone who performs newborn examinations including nurses, neonatal and pediatric nurse practitioners, nurse-midwives, physicians and therapists. It can also serve as a core text for any program preparing individuals for advanced practice roles in neonatal care. KEY FEATURES: An authoritative and renowned text that comprehensively addresses all key aspects of newborn assessment Provides a well-ordered evaluation of individual body systems. Assists the practitioner in identifying infant state, behavioral clues, and signs of pain, facilitating individualized care. Comprehensively addresses the tremendous range of variation among newborns of different gestational ages. The content is amplified by numerous photos and illustrations, many in full color Includes Power Point slides and an Image Bank |
| abdominal pain nursing assessment: Pain Margo McCaffery, Chris Pasero, 1999 Pain: Clinical Manual advocates an interdiciplinary approach to the care of patients with often under-treated pain. This book makes the application to scientific knowledge to the development of practical tools and guidelines for the care of patients in all clinical settings and all age groups. * Provides ready-to-use forms and recommendations for pain care committees to assist health care facilities to prepare for JCAHO inspections. * Includes two FREE pocket-size, laminated cards: equianalgesic charts to assist clinicians with dose calculations when changing routes of administration or analgesics, and dosing guides to commonly used adjuvants and nonopioids. * Includes FREE access to Mosby's PAIN WEBSITE. * The most clinically useful book ever published on pain, written by authorities who helped establish the pain management movement. * Includes 11 new chapters and five expanded and updated chapters to provide the most accurate, up-to-date, and comprehensive pain management information. * Includes icons to alert the reader to important, need-to-know information, such as pediatric content, patient examples, and reproducible material. * Features over 200 boxes and tables to help quickly locate key information and apply complex concepts at the bedside. * Presents a unique, multidisciplinary perspective. * Provides ready-to-use, practical, proven, and reproducible tools, pain assessment and documentation forms, and guides to analgesic use. * Contains patient information handouts on analgesics and nondrug methods of pain relief to educate the patient/family/caregiver about the patient's specific pain management. * Includes reproducible key policies, procedures, and protocols to assist the clinician in implementing patient focused interdisciplinary pain management. * Presents pharmacology content in four chapters - the three analgesic groups and an overview of how to combine them - to provide a readily understandable reference and practical resource. * Includes quick guides with illustrations of selected pain problems, such as pain related to sickle cell disease, peripheral neuropathy, and fibromyalgia. * Contains pain rating scales in over 20 languages to enhance patient/clinician communication in culturally diverse populations. |
| abdominal pain nursing assessment: Emergency Nursing Made Incredibly Easy! Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, 2014-11-11 Completely revised and updated to reflect the latest guidelines and innovation, Emergency Nursing Made Incredibly Easy!, Second Edition, offers essential information on emergency, trauma, and critical care. Presented in the easy-to-learn and enjoyable Incredibly Easy! format, it covers emergency care basics, including patient assessment and triage, trauma, disease crises, and patient and family communication. It also addresses legal issues such as handling evidence and documentation, and holistic issues such as pain and end-of-life care. Chapters detail emergency nursing by body system and cover shock, multi-system traumas, environmental emergencies, disaster preparedness, communicable diseases, and obstetric and pediatric emergencies. The presentation features light-hearted cartoons and humor, Memory Joggers and other icons, and end-of-chapter review questions. |
| abdominal pain nursing assessment: Health Assessment in Nursing Peter Lewis, 2011 |
| abdominal pain nursing assessment: Cancer Pain Management in Developing Countries Sushma Bhatnagar, 2018-06-29 Publisher's Note: Products purchased from 3rd Party sellers are not guaranteed by the Publisher for quality, authenticity, or access to any online entitlements included with the product. A Comprehensive Handbook of Cancer Pain Management in Developing Countries Written by an international panel of expert pain physicians, A Comprehensive Handbook of Cancer Pain Management in Developing Countries addresses this challenging and vital topic with reference to the latest body of evidence relating to cancer pain. It thoroughly covers pain management in the developing world, explaining the benefit of psychological, interventional, and complementary therapies in cancer pain management, as well as the importance of identifying and overcoming regulatory and educational barriers. |
| abdominal pain nursing assessment: Nurse's Pocket Guide Marilynn E. Doenges, Mary Frances Moorhouse, Alice C. Murr, Alice Geissler-Murr, 2004 Contains a Nurse's Pocket Minder, which lists nursing diagnoses through the latest NANDA Conference. Make sure your students use the best pocket guide to plan patient care! This handy pocket guide helps nursing students identify interventions most commonly associated with nursing diagnoses when caring for patients. It's the perfect resource for hospital and community-based settings. |
| abdominal pain nursing assessment: Medical-Surgical Nursing - Single-Volume Text and Elsevier Adaptive Learning Package Sharon L. Lewis, Shannon Ruff Dirksen, Margaret M. Heitkemper, Linda Bucher, 2014-06-17 Corresponding chapter-by-chapter to Medical-Surgical Nursing, 9e, Elsevier Adaptive Learning combines the power of brain science with sophisticated, patented Cerego algorithms to help you learn faster and remember longer. It's fun; it's engaging; and it's constantly tracking your performance and adapting to deliver content precisely when it's needed to ensure core information is transformed into lasting knowledge. Please refer to the individual product pages for the duration of access to these products. An individual study schedule reduces cognitive workload and helps you become a more effective learner by automatically guiding the learning and review process. The mobile app offers a seamless learning experience between your smartphone and the web with your memory profile maintained and managed in the cloud. UNIQUE! Your memory strength is profiled at the course, chapter, and item level to identify personal learning and forgetting patterns. UNIQUE! Material is re-presented just before you would naturally forget it to counteract memory decay. A personalized learning pathway is established based on your learning profile, memory map, and time required to demonstrate information mastery. The comprehensive student dashboard allows you to view your personal learning progress. |
| abdominal pain nursing assessment: Textbook of Adult Emergency Medicine E-Book Peter Cameron, George Jelinek, Anne-Maree Kelly, Anthony F. T. Brown, 2014-04-01 Now fully revised and updated, Textbook of Adult Emergency Medicine provides clear and consistent coverage of this rapidly evolving specialty. Building on the success of previous editions, it covers all the major topics that present to the trainee doctor in the emergency department. It will also prove invaluable to the range of other professionals working in this setting - including nurse specialists and paramedics - who require concise, highly practical guidance, incorporating latest best practices and current guidelines. For the first time, this edition now comes with access to addtional ancillary meterial, including practical procdure videos and self-assessment material. Updates throughout reflect latest practice developments, curricula requirements and essential guidelines Key point boxes highlight topic ‘essentials’ as well as controversial areas of treatment An expanded list of leading international contributors ensures comprehensive coverage and maximizes worldwide relevance New and enhanced coverage of important and topical areas - including latest imaging in emergency medicine; organ donation; massive transfusion protocols; medico legal issues; patient safety and quality measures All new accompanying electronic ancillariy material, including procedure videos and self-assessment materials to check your understanding and aid exam preparation Expansion of administration section - especially patient safety New and enhanced coverage of important and topical areas - including latest imaging in emergency medicine; organ donation; massive transfusion protocols; medico legal issues; patient safety and quality measures All new accompanying electronic ancillary materials - including practical procedures videos and self-assessment materials |
| abdominal pain nursing assessment: Lewis's Medical-Surgical Nursing E-Book Mariann M. Harding, Jeffrey Kwong, Dottie Roberts, Debra Hagler, Courtney Reinisch, 2019-09-07 Get a unique, conceptual approach to nursing care in this rapidly changing healthcare environment. Lewis's Medical-Surgical Nursing, 11th Edition gives you a solid foundation in medical-surgical nursing. This thoroughly revised text includes a more conversational writing style, an increased focus on nursing concepts and clinical trends, strong evidence-based content, and an essential pathophysiology review. Content covers all aspects of nursing care including health promotion, acute intervention, and ambulatory care. Helpful boxes and tables make it easy for you to find essential information, and a building-block approach makes even the most complex concepts simple to grasp. Key topics such as interprofessional care, delegation, safety, and prioritization are integrated throughout. Additionally, extensive drug therapy information and diagnostic studies tables give you a full picture of care. Best of all — a complete collection of learning and study resources helps you learn more effectively and offers valuable, real-world preparation for clinical practice. |
| abdominal pain nursing assessment: The Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm M. David Tilson, Charles D. Boyd, 1996 Clinical and laboratory information on abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAAs) is reviewed in this volume. The focus is on recent developments related to the biochemistry and cellular pathophysiology of matrix destruction associated with the disease. |
| abdominal pain nursing assessment: NANDA International Nursing Diagnoses Heather T. Herdman, Shigemi Kamitsuru, 2017-06-28 Fully updated and revised by authors T. Heather Herdman, PhD, RN, FNI, and Shigemi Kamitsuru, PhD, RN, FNI, Nursing Diagnoses: Definitions and Classification 2018-2020, Eleventh Edition is the definitive guide to nursing diagnoses, as reviewed and approved by NANDA International (NANDA-I). In this new edition of a seminal text, the authors have written all introductory chapters at an undergraduate nursing level, providing the critical information needed for nurses to understand assessment, its link to diagnosis and clinical reasoning, and the purpose and use of taxonomic structure for the nurse at the bedside. Other changes include: 18 new nursing diagnoses and 72 revised diagnoses Updates to 11 nursing diagnosis labels, ensuring they are consistent with current literature and reflect a human response Modifications to the vast majority of the nursing diagnosis definitions, including especially Risk Diagnoses Standardization of diagnostic indicator terms (defining characteristics, related factors, risk factors, associated conditions, and at-risk populations) to further aid clarity for readers and clinicians Coding of all diagnostic indicator terms for those using electronic versions of the terminology Web-based resources include chapter and reference lists for new diagnoses Rigorously updated and revised, Nursing Diagnoses: Definitions and Classification 2018-2020, Eleventh Edition is a must-have resource for all nursing students, professional nurses, nurse educators, nurse informaticists, and nurse administrators. |
| abdominal pain nursing assessment: Nursing Diagnosis Handbook Betty J. Ackley, Gail B. Ladwig, 2008 A reference to help nursing students and practising nurses select a nursing diagnosis and write plans of care with ease and confidence. The book provides care plans for every NANDA diagnosis and provides a quick access index of appropriate nursing diagnoses for over 1200 clinical entities. |
| abdominal pain nursing assessment: Health Assessment for Nursing Practice Susan Fickertt Wilson, Jean Giddens, 2009 'An Introduction to Television Studies' is a comprehensive introduction to the field. It provides resources for thinking about key aspects and introduces institutional, textual, cultural, economic, production and audience-centred ways of looking at television. |
| abdominal pain nursing assessment: Medical-Surgical Nursing Sharon L. Lewis, RN, PhD, FAAN, Linda Bucher, Margaret M. Heitkemper, RN, PhD, FAAN, Shannon Ruff Dirksen, RN, PhD, 2013-12-02 Over the past three decades, more and more nursing educators have turned to Lewis: Medical-Surgical Nursing for its accurate and up-to-date coverage of the latest trends, hot topics, and clinical developments in the field of medical-surgical nursing - and the new ninth edition is no exception! Written by a dedicated team of expert authors led by Sharon Lewis, Medical-Surgical Nursing, 9th Edition offers the same easy-to-read style that students have come to love, along with the timely and thoroughly accurate content that educators have come to trust. Completely revised and updated content explores patient care in various clinical settings and focuses on key topics such as prioritization, critical thinking, patient safety, and NCLEX® exam preparation. Best of all - a complete collection of interactive student resources creates a more engaging learning environment to prepare you for clinical practice. Highly readable format gives you a strong foundation in medical-surgical nursing. Content written and reviewed by leading experts in the field ensures that the information is comprehensive, current, and clinically accurate. Bridge to NCLEX Examination review questions at the end of each chapter reinforce key content while helping you prepare for the NCLEX examination with both standard and alternate item format questions. UNIQUE! Levels of Care approach explains how nursing care varies for different levels of health and illness. More than 50 comprehensive nursing care plans in the book and online incorporate NIC, NOC, and current NANDA diagnoses, defining characteristics, expected outcomes, specific nursing interventions with rationales, evaluation criteria, and collaborative problems. Over 800 full-color illustrations and photographs clearly demonstrate disease processes and related anatomy and physiology. NEW! Unfolding case studies included throughout each assessment chapter help you apply important concepts and procedures to real-life patient care. NEW! Managing Multiple Patients case studies at the end of each section give you practice applying your knowledge of various disorders and help you prioritize and delegate patient care. NEW! Informatics boxes discuss how technology is used by nurses and patients in health care settings. NEW! Expanded coverage of evidence-based practice helps you understand how to apply the latest research to real-life patient care. NEW! Expanded Safety Alerts throughout the book cover surveillance for high-risk situations. NEW! Separate chapter on genetics expands on this key topic that impacts nearly every condition with a focus on the practical application to nursing care of patients. NEW! Expanded coverage of delegation includes additional Delegation Decisions boxes covering issues such as hypertension and postoperative patient care. NEW! Genetic Risk Alerts and Genetic Link headings highlight specific genetic issues related to body system assessments and disorders. NEW! Revised art program enhances the book's visual appeal and lends a more contemporary look throughout. |
| abdominal pain nursing assessment: Health Assessment in Nursing Janet Weber, Jane Kelley, 2009-10-01 Now in its Fourth Edition, Health Assessment in Nursing is a colorful, user-friendly introductory level health assessment text for RN-level students. Targeted to ADN and BSN programs, this text presumes no prior knowledge of health assessment and is part of a suite that includes Lab Manual to Accompany Health Assessment in Nursing, Nurses' Handbook of Health Assessment, and Weber & Kelley's Interactive Nursing Assessment. For this edition, the COLDSPA mnemonic, which guides students through investigation of symptoms, has been revised to show specific applications to content in each chapter. A sample application of COLDSPA is presented at the beginning of each chapter's Nursing History section, and another accompanies each case study. The Frail Elderly chapter has been streamlined, with a stronger focus on the normal variations associated with assessment of elderly clients. Includes DVD-ROM. |
| abdominal pain nursing assessment: Schwartz's Principles of Surgery, 10th edition F. Charles Brunicardi, Dana K. Andersen, Timothy R. Billiar, David L. Dunn, John G. Hunter, Jeffrey B. Matthews, Raphael E. Pollock, 2014-06-05 THE WORLD'S #1 SURGERY TEXT--UPDATED TO INCLUDE STATE-OF-THE-ART EVIDENCE-BASED SURGICAL CARE AND LEADERSHIP GUIDANCE FOR TRAINEES AND PRACTICING SURGEONS The Tenth Edition of Schwartz's Principles of Surgery maintains the book's unmatched coverage of the foundations of surgery while bringing into sharper focus new and emerging technologies. We have entered a new era of surgery in which minimally invasive surgery, robotic surgery, and the use of computers and genomic information have improved the outcomes and quality of life for patients. With these advances in mind, all chapters have been updated with an emphasis on evidence-based, state-of-the-art surgical care. An exciting new chapter, Fundamental Principles of Leadership Training in Surgery, expands the scope of the book beyond the operating room to encompass the actual development of surgeons. This edition is also enriched by an increased number of international chapter authors and a new chapter on Global Surgery. More than ever, Schwartz's Principles of Surgery is international in scope--a compendium of the knowledge and technique of the world's leading surgeons. Features More clinically relevant than ever, with emphasis on high-yield discussion of diagnosis and treatment of surgical disease, arranged by organ system and surgical specialty Content is supported by boxed key points, detailed anatomical figures, diagnostic and management algorithms, and key references Beautiful full-color design |
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Apr 2, 2024 · Abdominal pain refers to discomfort or other uncomfortable sensations that you feel …
Abdomen - Wikipedia
The abdomen (colloquially called the gut, belly, tummy, midriff, tucky, or stomach[1]) is the front part of the …
Abdominal pain Causes - Mayo Cli…
Jul 28, 2005 · Abdominal pain can have many causes. The most common causes usually aren't serious, …
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Apr 18, 2022 · Abdominal pain has a wide variety of causes and treatments. Some conditions, such …
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