Intestinal failure and the ward nurses: causes, assessment and management

In order to manage intestinal failure (IF), a complex regimen of care is required to manage fluid intake and electrolyte balance. In the majority of cases ward nurses will bare the responsibility of managing patients with these specific needs, with the support of the nutritional multidisciplinary team. Therefore, nurses need to ensure they have expert knowledge of each area of IF management. This article defines IF and outlines how it can be managed surgically and medically. The author discusses the role of the ward nurse in monitoring and managing therapy, and states the importance of providing emotional and psychological care.