Etiology: Impacted stool, hernias, twisted intestine, intussusception, post op adhesions, tumors (less common in SBO)

Administer meds: antibiotics, antiemetics, and analgesics

The accumulation of GI secretions and air causes the the small intestine above the bowel to dilate

This stimulates the cell secretory activity which causes more fluid accumulation

Peristalsis is increased and can cause frequent stools and flatulence early on which increases distention and increases intraluminal pressure in the bowels

The mucosal lymphatics are compressed, increasing the intraluminal hydrostatic pressure of capillary beds

Fluid and electrolyte absorption decreases causing fluid loss and dehydration, which can later lead to hypovolemia and shock

Impaired movement of the bowel contents that cause an obstruction