Mesenteric ischemia.

Abstract

In all forms of mesenteric ischemia, early diagnosis and treatment is imperative. As this disease entity can be evident as a sole clinical event or a secondary event, close observation and suspicion of the diagnosis is advised in those who are at high risk. As the nurse caring for these patients, careful monitoring of the patient's fluid and electrolyte status, nutritional and gastrointestinal status is essential. This, along with assessing for complications and recurrence of ischemia, are the sine qua non of treatment for mesenteric ischemia.