OUR LADY OF FATIMA UNIVERSITY

CABANATUAN CAMPUS
COLLEGE OF NURSING

APPENDICITIS

By: Renmhar Crisanto

 OUR LADY OF FATIMA UNIVERSITY
CABANATUAN CAMPUS
COLLEGE OF NURSING
Definition:

Appendicitis is a medical condition characterized by the inflammation of the appendix, a

small, finger-like organ located at the junction of the large and small intestines. This
inflammation is often the result of a blockage, leading to bacterial overgrowth, swelling,
and increased pressure within the appendix.

Classifications/ Types:

There are two primary classifications of appendicitis:

● Uncomplicated (simple)
● Complicated (perforated or gangrenous).

Uncomplicated cases involve inflammation without further complications, while

complicated cases may exhibit perforation, abscess formation, or gangrene.

Risk Factors:

Several factors increase the risk of developing appendicitis, including age, with the
condition being most common among teenagers and individuals in their 20s. A family
history of appendicitis and certain conditions like cystic fibrosis can also contribute to
the risk.

Clinical Manifestations:

The clinical presentation of appendicitis typically includes abdominal pain, initially

centered around the belly button and later migrating to the lower right abdomen.
Accompanying symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, and
tenderness upon palpation of the abdomen.
 OUR LADY OF FATIMA UNIVERSITY
CABANATUAN CAMPUS
COLLEGE OF NURSING
Laboratories and Diagnostics:

Diagnosis involves a combination of physical examination, blood tests (often revealing

an elevated white blood cell count indicative of infection), and imaging studies such as a
computed tomography (CT) scan or ultrasound to visualize the appendix.

Pathophysiology:

The pathophysiology of appendicitis involves a blockage in the appendix, often due to

fecal material, lymphoid hyperplasia, or a foreign body. This blockage leads to the
accumulation of mucus and subsequent bacterial overgrowth, resulting in inflammation
and increased pressure within the appendix.
 OUR LADY OF FATIMA UNIVERSITY
CABANATUAN CAMPUS
COLLEGE OF NURSING
Complications:

Complications of appendicitis can be severe and include perforation of the appendix,

abscess formation, and peritonitis. Perforation is particularly concerning as it can lead to
the spread of infectious material into the abdominal cavity, requiring prompt medical
intervention.

Medical/ Surgical Management:

The primary treatment for appendicitis is surgical removal of the inflamed appendix, a
procedure known as an appendectomy. This may be performed laparoscopically or
through an open surgical approach. In complicated cases, antibiotics may be
administered to address associated infections.

Diet:

Postoperative dietary management involves a gradual return to a regular diet. Initially, a

clear liquid diet may be recommended, followed by the introduction of more solid foods
as tolerated. Adequate hydration is essential for recovery.

Nursing Management:

Nursing care for individuals with appendicitis includes continuous monitoring of vital
signs, pain management, administration of prescribed medications, and patient
education on postoperative care. Nurses play a crucial role in assessing for signs of
infection, ensuring proper wound care, and providing emotional support during the
recovery process. Frequent assessment and communication with the healthcare team
are essential components of comprehensive nursing management.
OUR LADY OF FATIMA UNIVERSITY
CABANATUAN CAMPUS
COLLEGE OF NURSING
OUR LADY OF FATIMA UNIVERSITY
CABANATUAN CAMPUS
COLLEGE OF NURSING