Abstract
Acute diarrheal illness (illness of less than two weeks' duration) accounts for numerous out-patient health care visits. This article provides an overview of the most common causes of acute diarrhea and presents a comprehensive approach to patient evaluation, diagnosis and management. A detailed outline of bacterial, viral, parasitic and travelers' diarrheal disorders is presented. Dysentery (blood and mucus in the stool) represents an additional challenge to the health care provider. Salient historical data, physical assessment and laboratory considerations are reviewed. Management objectives including diet/fluid replacement, pharmacologic modalities and prophylaxis are described. Emphasis is given to patient education and the unique role of the nurse practitioner in assisting the patient through the assessment and management of this common, distressing problem.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.