Risk for dysfunctional gastrointestinal motility

Domain 3. Elimination and exchange
Class 2. Gastrointestinal function
Diagnostic Code: 00197
Nanda label: Risk for dysfunctional gastrointestinal motility
Diagnostic focus: Gastrointestinal motility

Introduction to Nursing Diagnosis – Risk for Dysfunctional Gastrointestinal Motility

The human digestive system is a complex structure that relies on an intricate balance of mechanical, physiologic and chemical functions to move food through the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Dysfunctional GI motility is an altered form of gastrointestinal functioning that can lead to negative health outcomes and may be correlated with a variety of disorders. This nursing diagnosis focuses on assessing the risk factors, understanding the associated conditions and providing strategies for combating GI motility dysfunction.

NANDA Nursing Diagnosis Definition

NANDA nursing diagnosis definition of Risk for Dysfunctional Gastrointestinal Motility: “At risk for decrease reversibility of change in the activity of the gastrointestinal tract, including gastrointestinal peristalsis, due to conditions that interfere with efficiency of GI function”.

Risk Factors

Risk factors for dysfunctional gastrointestinal motility can be divided into two main categories: intrinsic and extrinsic factors. Intrinsic factors refer to internal issues within the digestive tract that are reliant on personal genetic predispositions. Examples of these factors include diet, lifestyle habits and illnesses. Extrinsic factors are more external in nature and primarily involve external influences that can cause adverse affects to the GI tract. These include environmental toxins, drugs, smoking and physical stress.

At Risk Population

Certain populations are at an increased risk of developing dysfunctional gastrointestinal motility. These populations include individuals who have pre-existing underlying medical conditions, such as diabetes, irritable bowel syndrome, or celiac disease; those who have undergone surgery or had a tube placed in the stomach; pregnant or postpartum women; and people who take certain medications, like antibiotics. Stress may also be a risk factor, and those who suffer from chronic stress or anxiety are more likely to experience symptoms of dysmotility.

Associated Conditions

Several conditions can be associated with dysfunctional GI motility, including nausea and vomiting, abdominal bloating and pain, excessive gas, constipation, and diarrhea. These symptoms may persist even after treatments, and some may require further medical attention and follow-up. In general, these conditions can be uncomfortable and can cause serious disruption in daily life.

Suggestions of Use

If you suspect that you may be at risk for developing dysfunctional GI motility, it is important to talk to your healthcare provider. A healthcare provider can help assess your risk factors and diagnose any potential underlying conditions that could be causing symptoms of dysmotility. Treatment of dysmotility will depend on the underlying cause and may involve dietary changes and medications.

Suggested Alternative NANDA Nursing Diagnosis

Alternative NANDA nursing diagnostics that are related to dysfunctional GI motility include Risk for Ineffective Health Maintenance, Acute Pain, Impaired Comfort, and Activity Intolerance. Risk for Ineffective Health Maintenance refers to the individual’s inability to engage in activities required to maintain health, such as monitoring diet and exercise. Acute Pain is a short-term condition involving intense sensations that are localized to one area. Impaired Comfort is decreased comfort due to a physical or psychological disturbance, and Activity Intolerance is an inability to perform activities of daily living due to fatigue or decreased energy.

Usage Tips

When assessing a patient’s risk for dysfunctional GI motility, it is important to look for additional signs and symptoms, in addition to the presentation of functional GI symptoms. These can range from psychological indicators, such as stress or anxiety levels, to physiological aspects, such as the presence of inflammation or gastrointestinal discomfort. It is also important to take into account any medical history, dietary patterns, lifestyle habits, and current medications, as these may all contribute to GI motility dysfunction.

NOC Outcomes

The Nursing Outcomes Classification (NOC) system delineates six outcomes for dysfunctional gastrointestinal motility: Health Seeking Behaviors, Table Intake, Bowel Elimination, Stool Characteristics, Sexual Function, and Hydration Status. Health Seeking Behaviors identify those actions that demonstrate commitment to better health outcomes, such as attending doctor's appointments or seeking help with the management of anxiety. Table Intake refers to consistency of meals eaten, overall nutritional intake, and food monitoring. Bowel Elimination is the ability to pass stool or gas in a normal amount and manner. Stool Characteristics include water content, color, and odor. Sexual Function is the ability to achieve and maintain sexual arousal. Hydration Status observes the level of hydration in both the oral cavity and other body systems.

Evaluation Objectives and Criteria

During assessment, evaluation objectives and criteria should focus on the six NOC outcomes previously discussed. Health Seeking Behaviors should indicate that patient is actively pursuing solutions to improve their health. Table Intake should demonstrate a balanced food intake and appropriate hydration levels. Bowel Elimination should reflect consistent and normal function. Stool Characteristics should reflect the correct color and texture. Sexual Function should remain at an acceptable level. Hydration should demonstrate fluid levels while reflecting the time of day, heat level, and other environmental stresses.

NIC Interventions

The Nursing Interventions Classification (NIC) system outlines four interventions for dysfunctional GI motility. The first intervention is Nutrition Management. This includes monitoring dietary intake and analyzing nutrient deficits. Secondly, is Colon Therapy which is a comprehensive approach utilizing manual stimulation and massage to promote gastrointestinal motility. The third intervention is Fluid/Fiber Balance which focuses on increasing fiber intake, hydration, and elimination of unhealthy foods. Lastly, is Bladder Retraining which focuses on developing new patterns of urinary elimination.

Nursing Activities

Upon diagnosis, the nurse should create a care plan that takes into consideration the patient’s needs and preferences. This may involve educating the patient on proper dietary and nutrition choices or regulating medication dosages. Depending on the severity of the case, the nurse may conduct regular assessments, teach relaxation techniques or administer alternative therapies to help reduce symptoms.

Conclusion

Risk for Dysfunctional Gastrointestinal Motility is an umbrella nursing diagnosis that encompasses an array of conditions and treatments. Ultimately, the goal of treating this condition is to provide patients with symptom relief and improved quality of life. Healthcare providers should strive to maintain an individualized approach that takes into account risk factors, associated conditions and available interventions to combat the disruption that dysfunctional GI motility can cause.

5 FAQs

• What is Dysfunctional GI Motility? Dysfunctional GI (gastrointestinal) motility is an alteration of the normal movement of food through the GI tract. It can lead to negative health outcomes and can be related to a variety of disorders.
• What are the risk factors for Dysfunctional GI Motility? Risk factors for dysfunctional GI motility can be broken down into two main categories: intrinsic and extrinsic factors. Intrinsic factors include diet, lifestyle habits, and illnesses; while extrinsic factors are environmental toxins, drugs, smoking and physical stress.
• Who is at risk for developing Dysfunctional GI Motility? An increased risk of developing dysfunctional GI motility is seen among those with pre-existing illnesses, those who have undergone surgery, pregnant or postpartum women, and people taking certain medications. Additionally, those suffering from chronic stress or anxiety may experience symptoms of dysmotility.
• What are the associated conditions of Dysfunctional GI Motility? Associated conditions of Dysfunctional GI Motility can include nausea/vomiting, abdominal bloating and pain, excessive gas, constipation and diarrhea.
• What are the suggested interventions for Dysfunctional GI Motility? Suggested interventions for Dysfunctional GI Motility may include dietary changes, medications, assessment for underlying conditions, health seeking behaviors, nutritional management, colon therapy, fluid/fiber balance and bladder retraining.

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