4. Causes
• An obstruction:
Food waste or a hard piece of stool (fecal stone) can
block the opening of the cavity
• An infection:
Appendicitis may also follow an infection, such as a
gastrointestinal viral infection, or it may result from
other types of inflammation.
• Traumatic injury to the abdomen
5. PATHOPHYSIOLOGY
Appendix become obstructed
Increase intra-luminal pressure
Decrease venous drainage, thrombosis, Edema& bacterial invasion
Appendix become hyperemic, warm& covered with exudates
Perforation& gangrene of appendix
7. SIGNS/SYMPTOMS
• The main symptoms is pain in
abdomen(Rovsing’s & Psoas sign)
• Swelling
• Loss of appetite
• N/V
• Constipation or diarrhoea
• Low fever
• Inability to pass gas
8.
9. Diagnostic evaluation
• Medical history and physical examination
• Laboratory tests
-WBC (10,000-18,000 mm3 )& neutrophils elevated
-C-reactive protein elevated
-urine analysis
-electrolytes
• Imaging tests
-Ultrasound of the lower abdomen
-Abdominal computed tomography (CT scans)
11. MANAGEMENT
MEDICAL TREATMENT:
1. Supportive and symptomatic management
Antibiotics/fluids etc.
SURGICAL TREATMENT:
1. Treatment of underlying cause is-
Appendectomy(laparoscopic& open)
14. Nursing Management
Pre – Operative
NPO status upon admission
Administer IV fluids as prescribed
Semi-Fowler’s position to contain abdominal drainage in the lower
abdomen
Avoid laxatives/enemas or application of heat that could cause
perforation
Post – Operative
Administer opioid analgesia (morphine sulfate)
Administer IV antibiotics as ordered
For peritonitis, monitor NG tube drainage
For perforation or abscess, monitor surgical drains.
