Lesson 11: Abdominal Illness

Objectives Demonstrate a field assessment for abdominal pain/discomfort List signs/symptoms of serious abdominal problems Define & describe treatment of & long term care for stomachache & diarrhea Describe situations that would require slow evacuation versus rapid evacuation Describe personal/camp hygiene to help prevent abdominal issues

Abdominal Illness Overview Abdominal pain can be common May never know source of the problem When taking SAMPLE history ask about abdominal pain/discomfort To assess, press gently on four quadrants with fingers flat on abdomen. Start away from the pain Note results in assessment

Checking & Caring for Stomachache Gastritis: inflammation of stomach lining, causes most stomachaches Signs/symptoms Gradually increasing/widespread discomfort, often worse in lower region Intermittent cramping Nausea & vomiting Diarrhea

Care for Stomachaches Keep Patient well hydrated Provide bland diet, if not vomiting Maintain good hygiene to keep from spreading

Caring for Diarrhea Diarrhea: frequent loose & watery stools, may also have stomachache Gastroenteritis: mild inflammation of gastrointestinal tract If mild, have patient drink water or diluted sports drink/non-citrus fruit juice If persistent, requires aggressive electrolyte replacement. i.e. 1 teaspoon salt, 8 teaspoons sugar per quart

Caring for Diarrhea If patient not vomiting: Feed with rice, grains, bananas, potatoes or other bland items Avoid fats, dairy products, caffeine, alcohol OTC medications can be used, if available

Serious Abdominal Pain Signs & Symptoms Fever higher than 102F Persistent pain for more than 12 hours Localized pain, especially if patient guards area Tenderness, rigidity, swelling Pain increases with movement, walking, etc. Blood in vomit, feces, or urine In vomit: looks like coffee grounds In feces: may be black like tar In urine: appears light brown to reddish

Guidelines for Evacuation GO SLOW with any person that has persistent abdominal discomfort GO FAST for any patient with signs/symptoms of serious abdominal pain

Preventing Abdominal Pains Personal & Group Hygiene Wash hands with soap and water Don’t eat leftover food unless properly stored Bury human waste >200 feet from water source Do not share personal eating utensils Do not put personal eating utensils in group food pot Keep kitchen clean, disinfect all pots/utensils prior to using Disinfect all drinking water

Disinfecting Water Boiling: rolling boil for at least 1 min. (longer at higher elevations) Chemical treatment: as directed for particular treatment Filtration: removes bacteria, may not get all viruses Ultraviolet light devices