The act of blowing a gas, powder, or vapor into a body cavity is known as?

Appeared in: MNS 2024

Explanation

Insufflation is the precise medical term for the administration of a substance in the form of a gas, powder, or vapor into a body cavity.
This technique is fundamental to many minimally invasive surgeries, such as laparoscopy, where carbon dioxide gas is used to create a pneumoperitoneum (a gas-filled abdominal cavity).
The purpose of insufflation is typically to distend the cavity, separating anatomical structures to improve visualization and create a safe working space for the surgeon.

Option A: Local application refers to applying a substance, like a cream or ointment, directly onto a surface of the body (e.g., skin), not blowing it into a cavity.
Option B: Installation is a misspelling of 'instillation,' which is the process of introducing a liquid into a body cavity or onto a surface, usually slowly or drop by drop.
Option C: Inspection is a method of physical assessment that involves visually examining a part of the body. It does not involve administering any substance.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: Knowing Medical Terminology: Administration Routes and Procedures helps nurses interpret findings accurately and avoid errors in routine assessment, medication administration, and patient teaching.
A key nursing responsibility for post-laparoscopic patients is managing referred shoulder pain, which is caused by diaphragmatic irritation from the CO₂ gas used for insufflation. Reassuring the patient and encouraging ambulation are key interventions.
Nurses in the operating room monitor the intra-abdominal pressure during insufflation to ensure it stays within safe limits (typically below 15 mm Hg) to prevent cardiovascular and respiratory compromise.
What if the patient has severe COPD? Insufflation with CO₂ would pose a higher risk due to potential hypercapnia (CO₂ retention). Anesthesiologists would need to adjust ventilation settings aggressively and may consider alternative gases or techniques.

How to Approach the Question

First, break down the question stem to identify the core action and substance: 'blowing a gas, powder, or vapor' into a 'body cavity'.
This is a factual recall question that tests your knowledge of medical terminology.
Evaluate each option against the definition derived from the stem.
'Local application' involves surfaces, not blowing into cavities.
'Installation' (instillation) involves liquids, not gases.
'Inspection' is a visual exam, not an administration technique.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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E6 Gynecology Williams p. 34-57

E6 Nursing Fundamentals Taylor p. 868-870

Practise the full MNS 2024

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.