The initial management for ileus includes which of the following?

The initial management for ileus includes which of the following?

• A. Observation at home
• B. Oral fluids
• C. NPO with nasogastric decompression
• D. Immediate surgery

Answer: (C)

Resting the bowel and decompressing the GI tract is the initial approach to ileus. Because ileus is a transient slowdown of gut motility rather than a mechanical blockage, the aim is to minimize stimulation and relieve distention while correcting contributing factors. Keeping the patient NPO and using nasogastric decompression when there is significant distention or vomiting helps reduce intraluminal pressure, lowers the risk of aspiration, and provides symptomatic relief as fluids and electrolytes are corrected and underlying causes (such as opioid use or electrolyte imbalances) are addressed. Observation at home isn’t appropriate, and relying on oral fluids alone won’t decompress a distended bowel; immediate surgery isn’t indicated unless there’s concern for a mechanical obstruction, perforation, or ischemia.

Resting the bowel and decompressing the GI tract is the initial approach to ileus. Because ileus is a transient slowdown of gut motility rather than a mechanical blockage, the aim is to minimize stimulation and relieve distention while correcting contributing factors. Keeping the patient NPO and using nasogastric decompression when there is significant distention or vomiting helps reduce intraluminal pressure, lowers the risk of aspiration, and provides symptomatic relief as fluids and electrolytes are corrected and underlying causes (such as opioid use or electrolyte imbalances) are addressed. Observation at home isn’t appropriate, and relying on oral fluids alone won’t decompress a distended bowel; immediate surgery isn’t indicated unless there’s concern for a mechanical obstruction, perforation, or ischemia.