Nursing Care Plan – 4 Appendectomy Nursing Care Plan (NCP)

Appendectomy is the surgical removal of the appendix. Here are 4 Nursing Care Plan (NCP) for appendectomy.

An inflamed appendix may be removed using a laparoscopic approach with laser. However, the presence of multiple adhesions, retroperitoneal positioning of the appendix, or the likelihood of rupture necessitates an open (traditional) procedure.

Studies indicate that laparoscopic appendectomy results in significantly less postoperative pain, earlier resumption of solid foods, a shorter hospital stay, lower wound infection rate, and a faster return to normal activities than open appendectomy.

4 Appendectomy Nursing Care Plan (NCP)

• Acute Pain — Appendectomy Nursing Care Plan (NCP)
• Risk for Deficient Fluid Volume — Appendectomy Nursing Care Plan (NCP)
• Risk for Infection — Appendectomy Nursing Care Plan (NCP)
• Knowledge Deficit — Appendectomy Nursing Care Plan (NCP)

Diagnostic Studies for Appendectomy

• WBC: Leukocytosis above 12,000/mm³, neutrophil count often elevated to greater than 75%.
• Abdominal x-rays: May reveal hardened bit of fecal material in appendix (fecalith), localized ileus.
• Ultrasound or CT scan: May be done for differentiation of appendicitis from other causes of abdominal pain (e.g., perforating ulcer, cholecystitis, reproductive organ infections) or to localize drainable abscesses.

Nursing Priorities for Appendectomy

1. Prevent complications.
2. Promote comfort.
3. Provide information about surgical procedure/prognosis, treatment needs, and potential complications.

Discharge Goals

1. Complications prevented/minimized.
2. Pain alleviated/controlled.
3. Surgical procedure/prognosis, therapeutic regimen, and possible complications understood.
4. Plan in place to meet needs after discharge.