Question

  

Barium – What is this? Why is it used? What is a priority intervention after Client completes the Barium study

Answer 1

Barium – What is this?

Barium

Barium is a silvery-white metal that can be found in the environment, where it exists naturally. It occurs combined with other chemicals, such as sulphur, carbon or oxygen. Ii is very light and its density is half that of iron. Barium oxidizes in air, reacts vigorously with water to form the hydroxide, liberating hydrogen. Barium reacts with almost all the non-metals, forming often poisoning compounds.

Barium – Why is it used?

Barium swallow test

A barium swallow test is a special type of imaging test that uses barium and X-rays to create images of your upper gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Your upper GI tract includes the back of your mouth and throat (pharynx) and your esophagus.

Barium is used during a swallowing test to make certain areas of the body show up more clearly on an X-ray. The radiologist will be able to see size and shape of the pharynx and esophagus. He or she will also be able see how you swallow. These details might not be seen on a standard X-ray. Barium is used only for imaging tests for the GI tract.

A barium swallow test may be used by itself or as part of an upper GI series. This series looks at your esophagus, stomach, and the first part of the small intestine (duodenum).

Fluoroscopy is often used during a barium swallow test. Fluoroscopy is a kind of X-ray “movie.”

What is a priority intervention after Client completes the Barium study

You may go back to your normal diet and activities after a barium swallow test, unless your healthcare provider tells you otherwise.

Management of constipation after a swallowing test

Barium may cause constipation or impacted stool after the swallowing test if it isn't completely cleared from your body. You can manage constipation by drinking plenty of fluids and eating foods high in fiber to help the rest of the barium leave your body. You may also be given a laxative to help with this.

Your bowel movements may be white or lighter in color until all the barium has left your body.

Major side effects after a barium swallow test

Call your healthcare provider right away if any of these happen after your barium swallow test:

• Trouble with bowel movements or you are unable to have a bowel movement or pass gas

• Pain or swelling of the abdomen

• Stools that are smaller in size than normal

• Fever

Some people experience temporary stomach upset, headache or dizziness after a barium meal or swallow. More serious reactions to the barium are possible but rare — contact your doctor if you experience any symptoms that are unusual for you after a barium meal or swallow.

If a muscle relaxant is used it can cause blurred vision for a short time so you may not be able to drive home straight away.