Question

A patient informs the nurse that he has been having abdominal pain that is relieved when having a bowel movement. The patient states that the physician told him he has irritable bowel syndrome. What does the nurse recognize as characteristic of this disorder?

Weight loss due to malabsorption Blood and mucus in the stool Chronic constipation with sporadic bouts of diarrhea Client is awakened from sleep due to abdominal pain.

Answer 1

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a chronic gastrointestinal disorder characterized by abdominal pain and changes in bowel habits. Serotonin abnormalities and stress are common contributors. Soluble fiber supplements may help manage IBS symptoms.

Step-by-step explanation:

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a chronic gastrointestinal disorder characterized by abdominal pain and changes in bowel habits. It is often associated with stress and can be triggered by certain foods or medications. The patient's experience of abdominal pain being relieved by bowel movements is a common characteristic of IBS. It is believed that serotonin, a neurotransmitter, plays a role in the regulation of gastrointestinal function and mood, and abnormalities in serotonin signaling may contribute to the development of IBS. Soluble fiber supplements may be beneficial in managing the symptoms of IBS.