NCLEX Review & Nursing School

Diverticulitis

Diverticulitis is occurs when the there is an inflammation in the diverticula, which is a sac like outpouching of the large intestine.

• Inflammation is usually caused by trapping of food.

Assessment:

• bowel irregularities, cramping pain that is usually in the left lower quadrant of the abdomen and a low grade fever, can occur.

Diagnostics

• barium studies and an endoscopy exam.

Remember for the nclex:

• A barium enema is contraindicated in patients with acute diverticulitis due to the possibility of perforation of the diverticulum.
• A Colonoscopy is also contraindicated with these patients.
• Morphine is not give to these patients due to intralumenal pressure.

Treatments includes:

• increasing the dietary intake of soft fiber foods and the increase of fluid intake (2-3 liters per day) make sure that it is within limits.
• low fiber diet is give to patients.

Medications:

• Antibiotics
• Analgesics (Talwin)
• Fiber laxatives (Metamucil)