Define the term acute abdomen.
The correct answer and explanation is :
Definition:
An acute abdomen refers to the sudden onset of severe abdominal pain that may require urgent medical or surgical intervention due to a potentially life-threatening intra-abdominal condition.
Explanation (300 words):
An acute abdomen is not a specific diagnosis but a clinical term used to describe a constellation of signs and symptoms indicating a serious abdominal pathology. It often presents with severe, rapidly worsening abdominal pain and may be associated with other symptoms like fever, vomiting, distension, tenderness, guarding, or rebound tenderness. Because the underlying cause can progress quickly and result in complications such as infection, sepsis, or organ failure, timely diagnosis and management are critical.
Common causes of acute abdomen include:
- Appendicitis – inflammation of the appendix, often presenting with pain starting around the navel and moving to the lower right abdomen.
- Cholecystitis – inflammation of the gallbladder, typically causing right upper quadrant pain, often after fatty meals.
- Bowel obstruction – can result from adhesions, hernias, or tumors and presents with cramping pain, vomiting, and lack of bowel movements.
- Perforated peptic ulcer – leads to sudden severe pain and may cause peritonitis.
- Ectopic pregnancy – a life-threatening condition where a fertilized egg implants outside the uterus, usually in a fallopian tube.
- Pancreatitis – inflammation of the pancreas, often associated with alcohol use or gallstones.
Diagnosis usually involves a thorough history, physical examination, blood tests, and imaging (such as X-ray, ultrasound, or CT scan). Management depends on the cause but may include IV fluids, antibiotics, pain control, and surgical intervention.
Nurses play a key role in early recognition, monitoring vital signs, managing pain, and preparing the patient for possible surgery. Quick identification and treatment can be life-saving, which makes the acute abdomen a medical emergency that demands rapid evaluation and action.