Objectives:

To interpret the nursing care process applied to patients with Bjorck IV catastrophic abdomen in the intensive care unit through a systematic review of the scientific literature.

Method:

Retrospective observational study through systematic review following PRISMA guidelines.

Results:

Catastrophic abdomen has a prevalence of 1 case per 100,000 inhabitants according to the WHO, with a mortality rate of up to 50%. The main complications include intestinal obstruction (44-46%), enterocutaneous fistulas (22%), evisceration (18%) and abdominal sepsis (15-30%). The nursing care process should focus on comprehensive care based on functional patterns, prioritising dysfunctional needs, central line management, catheter care, ostomies and prevention of nosocomial infections.

Conclusions:

The management of catastrophic abdomen requires multidisciplinary care in second and third level hospitals. The nursing care process is essential to improve quality of life, reduce complications and achieve successful recovery in this pathology with high morbidity and mortality.