Posted: February 9th, 2022

Post-operative Nursing Practice in Asccitis

Post-operative Nursing Practice in Asccitis

Asccitis is a condition that occurs when fluid accumulates in the abdominal cavity, causing swelling, discomfort, and increased risk of infection. It can be caused by various factors, such as liver cirrhosis, heart failure, kidney disease, or cancer. Asccitis can affect the quality of life and survival of patients who undergo surgery, especially abdominal surgery. Therefore, post-operative nursing care is crucial to prevent complications and promote recovery.

Post-operative nursing care for patients with asccitis involves several aspects, such as:

– Monitoring vital signs, fluid balance, and electrolyte levels
– Assessing the abdomen for signs of distension, tenderness, or leakage
– Managing pain and discomfort with appropriate analgesics and positioning
– Preventing infection and wound dehiscence by maintaining aseptic technique and dressing changes
– Educating the patient and family about the condition, treatment, and self-care
– Providing emotional support and coping strategies

One of the main challenges of post-operative nursing care for patients with asccitis is the management of fluid overload. Fluid overload can lead to complications such as pulmonary edema, cardiac failure, or renal impairment. Therefore, nurses need to monitor the patient’s fluid intake and output, weight changes, and serum albumin levels. Nurses also need to administer diuretics and paracentesis as prescribed by the physician. Paracentesis is a procedure that involves inserting a needle into the abdominal cavity and draining the excess fluid. Paracentesis can relieve symptoms such as dyspnea, abdominal pain, or nausea. However, it can also cause complications such as hypotension, electrolyte imbalance, or infection. Therefore, nurses need to prepare the patient for the procedure, ensure informed consent, maintain sterile technique, and monitor the patient’s vital signs and fluid status during and after the procedure.

Another challenge of post-operative nursing care for patients with asccitis is the prevention of infection. Infection can occur due to bacterial translocation from the intestinal tract to the ascitic fluid, or due to wound contamination or breakdown. Infection can worsen the patient’s condition and increase the mortality rate. Therefore, nurses need to follow strict infection control measures, such as hand hygiene, glove use, and disposal of contaminated materials. Nurses also need to assess the patient’s wound for signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, warmth, pus, or odor. Nurses also need to change the wound dressing regularly and apply topical antibiotics as prescribed. Moreover, nurses need to administer systemic antibiotics as prescribed and monitor the patient’s temperature, white blood cell count, and culture results.

Post-operative nursing care for patients with asccitis requires specialized knowledge and skills. Nurses need to be aware of the pathophysiology, diagnosis, treatment, and complications of asccitis. Nurses also need to collaborate with other health care professionals and provide holistic care to the patient and family. By providing effective post-operative nursing care, nurses can improve the patient’s outcomes and quality of life.

References:

– Al-Khafaji A.H., Malik A.A., & Ahmad Z. (2017). Ascites: Diagnosis and Management in Current Clinical Practice. Cureus 9(12): e1988.
– Bajaj J.S., & Kamath P.S. (2019). Ascites: Evaluation and Management. Mayo Clinic Proceedings 94(10): 2110-2123.
– Gines P., & Fernandez-Esparrach G. (2018). Management of Ascites in Cirrhosis: Current Status and Future Directions. Gut 67(8): 1494-1509.
– Lai J.C., & O’Leary M.J. (2017). Perioperative Care of Patients with Liver Cirrhosis: A Review. Anesthesia & Analgesia 124(6): 1916-1925.

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