Flatus

Definition

Flatus is gas that is produced by bacterial fermentation in the intestines and expelled through the anus. Normal individuals pass gas 10 to 20 times per day.

Clinical Significance

Return of flatus after abdominal surgery signals the return of bowel function and is a key post-operative milestone before advancing diet or removing nasogastric decompression.

Excessive Flatulence Causes

• High-fiber foods, beans, cabbage, broccoli
• Dairy (lactose intolerance)
• Artificial sweeteners (sorbitol)
• Carbonated beverages
• Swallowed air (aerophagia)
• IBS, malabsorption syndromes
• SIBO (small intestinal bacterial overgrowth)

Nursing Interventions

Assess bowel sounds and abdominal distention. Encourage ambulation, which promotes peristalsis. Avoid gas-producing foods, for post-op patients, early ambulation significantly reduces ileus duration.

NCLEX Relevance

Passage of flatus post-op = return of bowel function.