Nursing Care of Laparoscopic Low Anterior Resection: Case Study

Abstract

Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer worldwide and the fourth leading cause of cancer-related mortality. It can occur in any part of the large intestine, including the colon, located within the abdominal cavity, and the rectum, situated in the pelvic cavity. Prompt and appropriate treatment significantly reduces mortality rates. Laparoscopic surgery has been widely accepted across the global medical field as a highly effective procedure. Its advantages include a faster recovery period, reduced postoperative pain, smaller incisions compared to open surgery, quicker restoration of gastrointestinal function, and shorter hospital stays.

As treatment guidelines continue to evolve, operating room nurses must continuously enhance their competencies, particularly in providing expert surgical nursing care and ensuring proper preparation of the operating room and specialized instruments required for the procedure. Therefore, this study focuses on caring for a patient undergoing laparoscopic colorectal cancer surgery, aiming to identify problems and provide comprehensive nursing care during the preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative phases to ensure patient safety, prevent complications, and promote a return to normal daily activities.

This case study involves a 65-year-old female patient who presented with abdominal bloating, abnormal bowel movements, and weight loss for four months. She was diagnosed with rectosigmoid adenocarcinoma with bowel obstruction, and had previously undergone loop transverse colostomy in April 2024. The patient was scheduled for laparoscopic low anterior resection. Throughout the period of care, the full nursing process was utilized, addressing both physical and psychological needs before, during, and after surgery. The patient received complete nursing care in accordance with professional standards, ensuring safety, preventing complications, and enabling her to return to normal daily life.

Laparoscopic surgery is a complex procedure requiring expert knowledge and nursing proficiency. Operating room nurses must accurately prepare surgical instruments and equipment and possess an understanding of each surgical step. The application of the nursing process to assess and solve problems contributes to a smooth surgical procedure, patient safety, and prevention of complications.

Keywords: colorectal cancer, laparoscopic colorectal cancer surgery