Mr.Simpson complains of abdominal pain, distention, and flatulence.He frequently experiences chronic diarrhea but at times he also has constipation.He states that his symptoms usually occur shortly after he eats and often stop after defecation.The nurse correctly believes that Mr.Simpson suffers from:
A)irritable bowel syndrome.
B)an intestinal obstruction.
C)diverticulitis.
D)ileus.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The symptoms described are consistent with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), which is characterized by abdominal pain or discomfort, bloating, changes in bowel frequency or consistency, and relief with defecation. The alternating pattern of constipation and diarrhea is common in IBS. The fact that symptoms occur shortly after eating also supports an IBS diagnosis. An intestinal obstruction, diverticulitis, or ileus would have different presenting symptoms and require further diagnostic testing for confirmation. Mr. Simpson's symptoms of abdominal pain, distention, flatulence, and alternating diarrhea and constipation that occur shortly after eating are all common symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome. The fact that the symptoms stop after defecation is also consistent with IBS. Intestinal obstruction, diverticulitis, and ileus would have different symptoms and causes.

MrSimpson Complains of Abdominal Pain, Distention, and Flatulence