BARIUM MEAL

BARIUM MEAL – Purpose, Principles, General Instruction, Types, Preliminary Assessment, Preparation of the Articles, Preparation of the Patient, Procedure, After Care and Complication

The examination of upper GI tract under fluoroscopy after the client drinks BaSO₄

PURPOSE

• To detect or exclude any anatomic or functional changes of upper gastrointestinal sphincter
• To diagnose ulcer, varices, tumors, regional enteritis
• Malabsorption syndrome

PRINCIPLE

• Microorganisms are found everywhere. The nurse takes care to prevent the transfer of microorganism
• Any unfamiliar situation produces fear and anxiety
• Good body mechanics maintains the body alignment and prevents fatigue
• Systematic ways of functioning saves time, energy and material

GENERAL INSTRUCTION

• The client should be prepared both physically and psychologically for the procedure
• Instruct the patient not to take anything orally 8 hours prior to rest
• Ensure the patient to take low residual diet for two days
• Instruct patient not to smoke prior to test
• The nurse should remain with the client and watch his general condition
• Both doctor and nurse should follow strict aseptic technique
• X-ray should be taken in every fixed interval
• The nurse should assess the client allergy to BaSO₄ prior to procedure
• Give prescribed laxative in previous night

TYPES

• Double-contrast studies
• Enteroclysis

PRELIMINARY ASSESSMENT

• Check the diagnosis
• Check the abilities and limitations
• Check the consciousness and ability to follow dissection
• Any extra help needed
• Articles available in the patient unit

PREPARATION OF THE ARTICLES

A tray containing:

Mackintosh and towel

BaSO₄ suspension in a bottle

Ounce glass

Paper bag and kidney tray

X-ray machine

PREPARATION OF THE PATIENT

• Explain the procedure to the patient to win his confidence
• Transfer the patient to the X-ray department
• Change client’s garments with hospital dress
• Maintain the privacy of the client with screen and drapes
• Maintain the desired position
• Arrange all the articles near bedside

PROCEDURE

• Films are taken at first
• Patient is given BaSO₄ suspension to drink
• 1^st X-ray will be taken
• Series of X-rays are taken at prescribed timings

AFTER CARE

• Transfer the patient to ward
• Place the patient comfortably
• A laxative may be prescribed
• Instruct the client to take more oral fluids it help to pass the barium
• Monitor the stools for the passage of barium
• Stools will be appearing chalky while barium can cause  bowel obstruction

COMPLICATION

• Obstruction in the intestine or
• Impaction in the rectum