Week 2 - Prerequisite knowledge

Question 1

What is the function of the small bowel?

Answer 1

• Digestion
• Absorption

The small bowel is primarily responsible for the digestion and absorption of nutrients.

Question 2

What is the function of the large bowel?

Answer 2

• Vitamin synthesis
• Water absorption
• Bilirubin breakdown

The large bowel plays a crucial role in synthesizing vitamins and absorbing water.

Question 3

Differentiate between partial and complete obstruction.

Answer 3

• Partial obstruction
• Complete obstruction

Partial obstruction allows some passage, while complete obstruction prevents any passage.

Question 4

What are the two types of obstruction based on blood supply?

Answer 4

• Simple (blood supply intact)
• Strangulated (ischaemic)

Simple obstruction maintains blood supply, whereas strangulated obstruction leads to ischaemia.

Question 5

What does third-spacing lead to?

Answer 5

Hypovolaemia

Third-spacing refers to the movement of fluid from the vascular space into the interstitial space.

Question 6

What metabolic condition can early vomiting cause?

Answer 6

Metabolic alkalosis

Early vomiting can lead to the loss of stomach acid, resulting in metabolic alkalosis.

Question 7

What are the electrolyte losses associated with early vomiting?

Answer 7

• K⁺ losses
• Na⁺ losses
• Cl⁻ losses

Electrolyte imbalances can occur due to vomiting, affecting potassium, sodium, and chloride levels.

Question 8

Describe the pain pattern associated with SBO.

Answer 8

Colicky, intermittent

Small bowel obstruction (SBO) typically presents with colicky and intermittent pain.

Question 9

Describe the pain pattern associated with LBO.

Answer 9

Low-grade continuous cramps

Large bowel obstruction (LBO) usually results in low-grade continuous cramping pain.

Question 10

What are the standard precautions for infection control?

Answer 10

Always apply standard precautions

Standard precautions are essential in preventing the spread of infections.

Question 11

When should transmission-based precautions be added?

Answer 11

With blood/splash risk (HBV/HCV/HDV)

Transmission-based precautions are necessary when there is a risk of exposure to blood or body fluids.