The Struggles of Ulcerative Colitis for Nursing Students + free download

Learning about Ulcerative Colitis

I had a personal experience with a friend in college, prior to nursing school that was diagnosed with ulcerative colitis. I first hand was able to witness her struggling having flare-ups, many hospital visits where she had missed class multiple times, and was not able to eat many things due to preventing her flare-ups. It was pretty eye-opening to me.

However, she was very positive and sought support from her family and friends, as well as all the healthcare professionals that cared for her. Eventually, she got a handle on her disease and after a few years of our class together, she was doing much better and living a much happier and healthier life. 

Ulcerative colitis, a form of inflammatory bowel disease, presents as a persistent challenge to those it affects. This chronic condition targets the colon and rectum, triggering inflammation and ulceration along the inner lining of the digestive tract. Symptoms vary in intensity but commonly include abdominal discomfort, diarrhea often containing blood or mucus, and unintended weight loss.

Managing ulcerative colitis requires a comprehensive approach involving medication, dietary adjustments, and lifestyle modifications. While there is no cure, effective treatment strategies aim to alleviate symptoms, promote remission, and enhance the overall quality of life for individuals navigating this condition.

Overview for Ulcerative Colitis

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a type of inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) characterized by chronic inflammation and ulcers in the lining of the large intestine (colon) and rectum 

General information for Ulcerative Colitis

1.  Affects colon and rectum
2.  Poor absorption of nutrients
3. Edema + Lesions + Ulcers
4. 10-20 Stools/day→ Blood & mucus
5.  Avoid foods that may exacerbate symptoms
           i. Raw vegetables and fruits, nuts, popcorn, whole-grains, cereals, and spicy foods

Therapeutic Management for Ulcerative Colitis

1. Major medication classes
      a. Corticosteroids→ ie. Methylprednisolone
                    i. Decreases inflammation
                   ii. The risk for Cushing’s Syndrome with chronic use
      b. Salicylates→ i.e. Sulfasalazine
                    i. Inhibits pro-inflammatory chemicals (prostaglandins, interleukin-I, Tumor Necrosis Factor)
      c. Immunomodulators→ i.e. Azathioprine or Methotrexate
                  i. Decreases immune and inflammatory response
                 ii. Helps decrease the need for corticosteroids
      d. Antidiarrheals→ i.e. Loperamide
                  i. Decrease loss of fluid and electrolytes
2. Surgical options
      a. Bowel resection or Colectomy
                 i. Ulcerative Colitis – curative
      b. Surgical removal of abscesses

Nursing Case Study for Ulcerative Colitis

Patient Profile:

Name: Mr. Mark Thompson 
Age: 28 years old 
Gender: Male 
Medical History: None reported

• Frequent episodes of bloody diarrhea 
• Abdominal cramping and discomfort 
• Fatigue and unintentional weight loss 

• Physical Examination: Mr. Thompson displayed tenderness in the lower abdomen and anemia 
• Laboratory Tests: Elevated C-reactive protein and fecal calprotectin, indicating inflammation 
• Colonoscopy and Biopsy: Revealed continuous inflammation and ulcers throughout the rectum and colon, confirming ulcerative colitis. 

1. Initiated aminosalicylates and corticosteroids to induce remission and control inflammation 
2. Prescribed immunomodulators to maintain remission and prevent relapses 

1. Collaborated with a dietician to optimize nutrition, address deficiencies, and manage dietary triggers 

1. Administered analgesics and antidiarrheal medications to alleviate pain and diarrhea

1. Provided counseling and emotional support to help Mr. Thompson cope with the impact of a chronic condition 

Outcome:

With a comprehensive treatment plan and supportive care. Mr. Thompson’s symptoms improved over time. His episodes of bloody diarrhea decreased, and he reported less abdominal discomfort. He actively participated in managing his condition, adhering to prescribed medications, and following dietary recommendations.  

Conclusion and Free Download

This ulcerative colitis review provides essential knowledge for approaching the NCLEX with confidence. Understanding its prevention, management, and interventions empowers nurses to provide effective care and save lives.

Looking for more must-know NCLEX review topics? Download our free eBook, "NCLEX Flash Notes: 77 Must-Know Nursing Topics for the NCLEX," by simply providing your email address below. I'll send you a complimentary copy straight to your inbox!

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Happy Nursing!