Nursing Care Measures for Patients with Abdominal Distension
Disease description:
I have always had cirrhosis, which has led to the development of ascites in my abdomen, causing symptoms of abdominal distension and pain. May I ask, what are the nursing measures for patients with abdominal distension?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Shen Yonghua
Abdominal distension is a common gastrointestinal symptom characterized by a feeling of bloating, discomfort, or pain in the abdomen. Specific nursing measures for patients with abdominal distension include:
1. Dietary adjustment: It is recommended to reduce the intake of gas-producing foods (such as beans, onions, etc.), avoid excessive water consumption, and eat slowly to minimize air swallowing.
2. Physical activity: Appropriate exercise can promote intestinal motility and improve slow gastrointestinal tract motility. Patients can choose aerobic exercises such as walking or jogging, and persist for about 30 minutes each time, which helps relieve symptoms such as abdominal distension and constipation.
3. Developing bowel habits: Maintain good bowel habits and prevent constipation, as constipation can worsen the feeling of abdominal distension.
4. Abdominal massage: Patients can massage the abdomen in a clockwise direction, which helps promote intestinal motility and facilitate defecation and gas release. Additionally, applying heat to the abdomen is also an effective method for relieving abdominal distension.
5. Psychological care: Abdominal distension may cause patients to feel depressed or anxious. Family members should provide more companionship and communication, alleviate their embarrassment, and encourage them to cooperate with treatment.
