In this focused review, we examine acute and chronic inflammatory bowel diseases, including appendicitis, peritonitis, gastroenteritis, ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s disease, and diverticulitis. This episode reviews pathophysiology, risk factors, assessment findings, laboratory interpretation, diagnostic testing, medication management, nursing priorities, surgical interventions, and potential complications. Emphasis is placed on differentiating ulcerative colitis from Crohn’s disease, recognizing signs of peritonitis and toxic megacolon, identifying fluid and electrolyte imbalances, and understanding immunosuppressive and biologic therapies. Nursing care related to nutritional support, infection monitoring, medication safety, and postoperative management is discussed to support clinical judgment and safe patient care.

Source: All information in this podcast is based on ATI Advanced Medical-Surgical Nursing, Chapter 53.