Bowel Sound Learning Module Format

Spectral analysis of bowel sounds in intestinal obstruction using an electronic stethoscope Study dataSiong Ching, S, Kai Tan, Y. World Journal of Gastroenterology, 18(33), 4585-4592.The purpose of this study was to determine the value of bowel sounds analysis using an electronic stethoscope to support a clinical diagnosis of intestinal obstruction. A total of 71 patients who presented with possible intestinal obstruction were evaluated using recordings of bowel sounds taken from an electronic stethoscope. Clinical and radiological data were reviewed, and the patients were classified as having acute, subacute, or no bowel obstruction.

Musical Bowel Sounds

Of the patients participating, 40 had an acute obstruction, 11 had subacute bowel obstruction, and 20 had no bowel obstruction. There was no significant difference in sound-to-sound interval, dominant frequency, and peak frequency among patients with acute, subacute, or no bowel obstruction. In acute large bowel obstruction, the sound duration was significantly longer and the dominant frequency significantly higher compared to acute small bowel obstruction.

For patients with small bowel obstruction, the sound-to-sound interval was significantly longer in those who subsequently underwent surgery compared with those treated nonoperatively. ConclusionsThe authors concluded that the auscultation of bowel sounds is nonspecific for diagnosing bowel obstruction. Differences in sound characteristics between large and small bowel obstruction may help determine the likely site of obstruction. Return of bowel sounds indicating an end of postoperative ileus: Is it time to cease this long-standing nursing tradition?

Study dataMassey, R. MEDSURG Nursing, 21(3), 146-150.The purpose of this study was to evaluate the return of bowel sounds as an indicator of resolution of postoperative ileus after abdominal surgery.

Days of return to bowel sounds after abdominal surgery was compared to the days of first postoperative flatus in 66 patients recovering from surgery. Correlation between time to first flatus and return of bowel sounds was not significant, indicating that the time to return of bowel sounds and time to first flatus were not associated. ConclusionsThe researchers concluded that auscultation for the return of bowel sounds as an indicator of resolution of postoperative ileus should be used with caution and possibly replaced by other more reliable indicators, such as passage of first postoperative flatus, elimination of abdominal distension, nausea, vomiting, and tolerance of diet. Bowel sounds and monitoring gastrointestinal motility in critically ill patients Study dataLi, B., Wang, J., Ma, Y. Clinical Nurse Specialist, Jan/Feb 2012, 29-34.The purpose of this study was to determine whether bowel sound auscultation is necessary in critically ill patients and the prospect of bowel sounds as a monitoring measurement in the intensive care unit. A systematic literature review of publications concerning bowel sounds and monitoring gastrointestinal motility in critically ill patients was conducted. At present, there is no more suitable indicator for bedside monitoring of bowel function and motility than bowel sounds.

The review indicated that although they lack objectivity, bowel sounds provide information about gastrointestinal motility disorders. Challenges about how to improve practice and assessment standards, and enhanced precision of auscultation devices are discussed. ConclusionsThe authors concluded that bowel sounds auscultation is necessary in critically ill patients to help provide information on gastrointestinal motility. Further research on assessment standards and enhanced auscultation devices are needed. Make selection below:.

Nursing Kelly is a full-body, lifelike manikin designed to teach all skills from basic patient handling to advanced nursing, including the measurement of noninvasive blood pressure and the auscultation and recognition of normal and abnormal heart, lung and bowel sounds. Nursing Kelly SimPad Capable Includes:. Adult, Full-body Male Manikin. Multi-Venous IV Training Arm. Blood Pressure Training Arm. Hospital Gown. Manikin Lubricant.

Assembly Tool Kit. SimPad PLUS System (204-30001) and LLEAP for SimPad PLUS (204-50150) required for operation.