Understanding the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome.

This article discusses the symptoms, treatments and nursing management of patients who have irritable bowel syndrome. It has been recognised as the most common outpatient disorder in the U.K. Various terms have been used to describe the syndrome, including irritated colon, irritable colon syndrome, mucous colitis or spastic colon.

Treatment and management of acute appendicitis.

Acute appendicitis is one of the most common surgical conditions, and affects about seven per cent of the population. Perforation of the appendix and associated peritonitis is the most common complication. This guided reflection article discusses the signs, pre and postoperative treatment and nursing management of patients presenting with acute appendicitis.