Final answer:
In managing short bowel syndrome in a child, the nurse should expect treatments that include Total Parenteral Nutrition, enteral nutrition through a feeding tube, the administration of pancreatic enzymes, and potentially surgical lengthening of the bowel. Regular use of laxatives is not typically recommended for SBS.
Step-by-step explanation:
For a child diagnosed with short bowel syndrome (SBS), a nurse can expect to see a comprehensive treatment plan that aims to enhance intestinal absorption and provide adequate nutrition. This plan would typically include:
Total parenteral nutrition (TPN): To bypass the inadequate gastrointestinal tract and provide essential nutrients directly into the bloodstream.
Enteral nutrition through a feeding tube: To encourage the remaining bowel to adapt and potentially increase its absorptive capacity.
Administration of pancreatic enzymes: To aid digestion and absorption of nutrients.
Surgical lengthening of the bowel: Procedures such as serial transverse enteroplasty (STEP) or intestinal transplantation may be considered to increase the functional length of the bowel.
Regular use of laxatives is generally not indicated for SBS and may worsen malabsorption.
Treatment is individualized based on the severity and specifics of each case, and management should be guided by a healthcare team experienced in dealing with this complex condition.