In the management of diverticulitis, which supportive measure might be used to decompress the gut?

• A. NG suction
• B. Oral laxatives
• C. High-fat diet
• D. Increased physical activity

Answer: (A)

Resting the bowel during an acute diverticulitis attack helps reduce inflammation and pressure in the intestines. Using an NG tube for suction decompresses the gut by removing gas and gastric/intestinal contents, which lowers distention and nausea, allowing the bowel to rest and heal. This supportive measure is about limiting stimulation of the bowel and keeping the lumen as quiet as possible.

Oral laxatives would stimulate the bowel and worsen distention and inflammation, so they’re not appropriate in the acute phase. A high-fat diet doesn’t address decompression and isn’t used to rest the gut during an attack. Increased physical activity can increase intra-abdominal pressure and symptoms, not help decompress.