Abdominal problems

Question 1

Goal of assessment for abd problem

Answer 1

Is it something mild that can be tx’ed in the field?
Or could it be more serious & require immediate evac?

Question 2

Signs that suggest more serious abd problem

Answer 2

• Severe pain
• sudden onset of pain
• pain >12 hrs, esp if constant
• pain localized to specific area
• guarding
• pain that gets worse when touched, with movement, or with each step
• abd wall is rigid or distended
• blood in vomit, urine, or feces
• NVD > 24 hrs, esp if pt can’t stay hydrated
• fever >102 - may show as chilling or shivering
• pain possibly associated with pregnancy or there’s vaginal bleeding
• pain accompanied by developing signs of shock

Question 3

tx if you suspect serious abd problem

Answer 3

pt should stay in comfortable position

hydration with clear liquids, including Gatorade/ORT; no solid food

Question 4

evac if serious abd problem suspected

Answer 4

fast

Question 5

gastroenteritis cause, signs

Answer 5

inflammation of GI tract - can be caused by viruses, bacteria, protozoa

signs: gradually increasing & widespread abd discomfort, often worse in lower abd, often with cramping, N&V

Question 6

gastroenteritis tx

Answer 6

pt should stay in comfortable position & rest

hydration with water or Gatorade; bland diet when they’re ready to eat

Question 7

gastroenteritis evac

Answer 7

most cases resolve on their own & don’t require evac

persistent gastroenteritis not responding to tx: slow

Question 8

hemorrhoids sxs

Answer 8

bright red blood on stool, TP, or in toilet

Question 9

hemorrhoids tx

Answer 9

OTC hemorrhoid cream

Question 10

hemorrhoids evac

Answer 10

evac usually not needed

if they become unable to walk: slow evac

Question 11

kidney stones sxs

Answer 11

• blood in urine
• stinky or cloudy urine
• burning with urination
• fever, chills
• vomiting
• extreme, persistent pain in back, side, lower belly, or groin

Question 12

kidney stones tx

Answer 12

have pt get in comfortable position
can take OTC pain meds

drink lots of water to flush out the stone

Question 13

kidney stones evac

Answer 13

if stone passes: evac not required; can resume normal activity when they feel ready

if sxs persist more than 1 day, or pain worsens & spreads: fast evac