Small bowel obstruction is a condition characterized by which finding? A) Severe fluid and electrolyte imbalances: B) Metabolic acidosis: C) Ribbon-like stools: D) Intermittent lower abdominal cramping:’
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
Correct Answer: A) Severe fluid and electrolyte imbalances
Explanation:
Small bowel obstruction (SBO) is a potentially serious condition in which there is a blockage in the small intestine that prevents the normal passage of digestive contents. This obstruction can be caused by adhesions from previous surgeries, hernias, tumors, or inflammatory diseases such as Crohn’s disease.
One of the hallmark features of SBO is the accumulation of gas and fluid in the intestine above the point of obstruction. As the obstruction persists, fluid continues to be secreted into the intestinal lumen, but it cannot move past the blockage. This leads to fluid sequestration and significant loss of electrolytes such as sodium, potassium, and chloride into the bowel. These losses are further worsened by vomiting, which is a common symptom of SBO. As a result, patients often develop severe dehydration and electrolyte imbalances.
In comparison:
- Metabolic acidosis (Option B) may occur in some cases of bowel ischemia or sepsis but is not a characteristic early feature of uncomplicated SBO.
- Ribbon-like stools (Option C) are more commonly associated with lower gastrointestinal tract issues, particularly colorectal obstructions or anal strictures, not small bowel problems.
- Intermittent lower abdominal cramping (Option D) may be present in SBO, but it is a nonspecific symptom and does not characterize the condition as accurately as the fluid and electrolyte disturbances.
Management of SBO includes fluid resuscitation, electrolyte correction, and bowel rest. In many cases, a nasogastric tube is placed to decompress the stomach. If the obstruction does not resolve with conservative measures or if there are signs of strangulation or perforation, surgery may be required.
Therefore, severe fluid and electrolyte imbalances are the most defining and critical finding in small bowel obstruction.
