Nursing management of patients with severe ulcerative colitis

Abstract

Ulcerative colitis is a relapsing chronic disease that has an unpredictable course. A relapse in the condition requires timely intervention and expert monitoring. A severe flare-up will often necessitate admission to hospital. This article provides an overview of the medical management of severe ulcerative colitis and the nursing interventions required.

The lived experience of adults with ulcerative colitis

“…Ulcerative colitis (UC) is an inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), affecting the superficial mucosal layer of the rectum and colon (Sephton ). Its characteristic symptoms include diarrhoea mixed with blood and cramping abdominal pain (Stein ).…”