Ileus is the condition characterized by which of the following?

• A. Infection of colon
• B. Partial or complete blockage of the small or large intestine
• C. Increased peristalsis
• D. Inflammation of stomach lining

Answer: (B)

Ileus is a disruption of normal intestinal movement that results in a functional blockage, where the bowels aren’t moving contents forward as they should. This means that, even though there isn’t a physical object blocking the gut, the flow is hindered because peristalsis is reduced or absent. The situation is best described as a partial or complete blockage of the small or large intestine because the movement of contents through the intestines is impaired, leading to symptoms like distension, nausea, and vomiting.

Other options fit different conditions: infection of the colon describes colitis, which is inflammation from infection; increased peristalsis would speed contents through the gut and isn’t characteristic of ileus; inflammation of the stomach lining is gastritis, a stomach issue rather than intestinal motility.