Nausea and vomiting are common complaints in the correctional environment.  Typically the result of gastrointestinal (GI) infections, nausea and vomiting may also be the result of other infections, metabolic disorders, central nervous system disorders, the ingestion of certain drugs, pain, pregnancy and psychiatric disorders. As with the assessment of all patient complaints, the evaluation should begin with a thorough history.

In this class, the basic abdominal assessment skills will be reviewed.  Nausea and vomiting will be explained, and potential reasons for each will be discussed. Common nursing interventions for the patient with nausea and /or vomiting will also be discussed.