According to the Merck Manual, the treatment may involve a continuous nasogastric suction, NPO status, and IV fluids and electrolytes. The magnesium and potassium are important electrolytes for gut function, the potassium should be kept at 4.0 or greater and the magnesium level should be 1.9 or greater. ln addition, an ileus lasting longer than one week is given the diagnosis of mechanical obstruction. (Merck Manual Online Medical Library, 2009)