How should a nurse explain the condition of intussusception to a client?

Intussusception is a specific medical condition where a portion of the intestine, known as the proximal loop, telescopes into an adjacent segment, referred to as the distal loop. This action can lead to obstruction, as the involved sections of the intestine can become compressed, causing a range of potential complications, including reduced blood flow, swelling, and possibly necrosis of the affected bowel tissue if not treated promptly.

This mechanism of telescoping effectively explains how the condition occurs and illustrates the nature of the problem, focusing on the interaction between the proximal and distal segments of the bowel. Clients gaining understanding of this term can better appreciate the potential severity of the condition and the necessity for prompt medical intervention.