Nursing Interventions for Patients with Acute Gastroenteritis

1. Nursing Interventions for Patients with
Acute Gastroenteritis
•Submitted by:
•Abdulrhman Ali Ayed Alrashidi ID: 22569
•Abdulaziz Saeed Alrashidi ID: 33505
•Khalil Alrashidi ID: 90129
•Abdulaziz Alrashidi ID: 10088
•Malik Alrashidi ID: 99790

2. Introduction
Acute gastroenteritis is a common condition that affects the gastrointestinal
tract, typically presenting with symptoms such as diarrhea, vomiting, abdominal
cramps, and fever. It is often caused by viral, bacterial, or parasitic infections
.
Although it is usually self-limiting, it can lead to serious complications like
dehydration—especially in vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, and
immunocompromised individuals. Nurses play a critical role in managing
symptoms, preventing complications, and educating patients and families on
proper care practices
.

3. Assessment and
Clinical Observation
•Monitoring Vital Signs:
To detect early signs of dehydration, such
as tachycardia or low blood pressure.
•Intake and Output (I&O):
Tracking fluid balance helps evaluate
hydration status.
•Assessing Hydration:
By checking skin turgor, mucous
membranes, and capillary refill time.

4. Core Nursing Interventions
A. Fluid and Electrolyte Replacement
1- Oral Rehydration Therapy (ORT):
Encourage small, frequent sips of oral rehydration solutions.
2- Intravenous (IV) Fluids:
Administered in cases of moderate to severe dehydration or if the patient is unable to
tolerate oral intake.
3- Electrolyte Monitoring:
Correct any imbalances, particularly with sodium and potassium.
B. Nutritional Support
1- Gradual Return to Normal Diet:
Start with bland, easy-to-digest foods such as bananas, rice.
2-Avoiding Irritants:
Recommend avoiding dairy, spicy, fatty, and caffeinated foods during the acute
phase.

5. Core Nursing Interventions
CONT,
C. Symptom Management
1- Medication Use: Administer antiemetics or antidiarrheals when appropriate and
under physician guidance.
2- Pain Relief: Use mild analgesics to alleviate abdominal discomfort as needed.
D. Infection Control
1- Hand Hygiene: Reinforce proper handwashing practices for patients, families, and
healthcare staff.
2- Isolation Precautions: Implement when contagious causes are suspected to
prevent cross-infection.

6. Patient and Family Education
A. Recognizing Dehydration Signs
Educate about symptoms such as dry mouth, reduced urination, sunken eyes, and
dizziness.
B. Promoting Proper Hydration
Encourage the use of ORS and clear fluids like broth and water; avoid sugary or
carbonated drinks.
C. Dietary Guidelines
Provide instructions on gradually reintroducing foods and avoiding those that may
worsen symptoms.
D. Hygiene Practices
Emphasize the importance of handwashing, safe food handling, and drinking clean
water.

7. Thanks