Small bowel obstruction Quiz: Ace Your Exams

Get ready to dominate your medical and nursing exams by using our dynamic quizzes to elevate your knowledge and increase your confidence. Whether you're gearing up for the USMLE®, COMLEX®, or your next in-class assessment, Osmosis quizzes tackle key topics in pathology, diagnostics, and treatment approaches. By honing in on clinical readiness and decision-making, we make sure the knowledge you gain empowers you both in the classroom and in real-world practice. Jump in and supercharge your exam prep!

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A 43-year-old man presents to the emergency department for evaluation of abdominal pain, distention, obstipation, and vomiting. CT of the abdomen and pelvis shows dilated small bowel with a transition point, and decompressed colon and rectum. The patient is provided with IV fluids, electrolyte replacement, and has a nasogastric tube placed. He is admitted to the hospital for bowel rest and decompression. By day 5, his symptoms have improved, but attempts to discontinue bowel decompression and initiate oral intake result in a recurrence of pain, distention, and vomiting, and placement of a second NG tube. He has not had a bowel movement or passed flatus since admission. Temperature is 36.6 ℃ (97.9 ℉), pulse 77/min, respiratory rate 14/min, blood pressure 120/78 mmHg, and oxygen saturation 100% on room air. On examination, his abdomen appears distended, is tympanic to percussion, with hyperactive, high-pitched bowel sounds. There is no rebound or guarding. Which of the following is the next best step in management?  

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