GI Disorders

Question 1

GERD

Answer 1

Gastro-esophaheal Reflux Disease

Question 2

GERD - Causes

Answer 2

Too much gas; parasites; hiatal hernia; pregnancy; obesity; tight clothing; poor posture; large meals; smoking; medications; exercise; magnesium deficiency; low chloride diet

Question 3

GERD - Signs and Symptoms

Answer 3

Epigastric pain and discomfort; burning sensation in esophageal regurgetation, painful swallowing, inflammation of the lining of the esophageal, aspiration pneumonia

Question 4

GERD - Treatment

Answer 4

Pharmalogical - Antacids, Histamine2 antagonists, anti-ulcer agents
Surgical - most common is fundoplication, tightening spinchter
Endoscopic dilation may manage the esophageal
Nursing: Education, avoid alcohol, peppermint, high fat foods, elevate bed, avoid food and drink a few hours prior to bed.

Question 5

Anorexia

Answer 5

Lack of appetite

Question 6

Anorexia - Causes

Answer 6

Disease process; medications; psychological conditions; stress; pregnancy; constipation; chemotherapy

Question 7

Anorexia - Signs and Symptoms

Answer 7

anorexia, nausea, vomiting, malnutrition, metabolic disorders, electrolyte imbalance, weakness and weightloss

Question 8

Anorexia - Treatment

Answer 8

Pharmalogical: appetite stimulants, anti-emetics
Medical: Treat underlying cause, maintain hydration (IV PRN), surgery for bowel obstruction.
Nursing: Oral care, record In/Out, assess impact on daily functioning, monitor associated risks (falls, delirium, would healing)

Question 9

Constipation

Answer 9

Bowel movements that are infrequently or hard to pass

Question 10

Constipation - Causes

Answer 10

Dehydration, low fiber intake, ignoring urge, stress, medication (i.e. opiods), disease process, overuse of laxatives

Question 11

Constipation - Treatment

Answer 11

Use of enema/suppositories, laxatives, digital dis impaction (RN only), dietary modifications.

Nursing: Teaching re: lifestyle modifications, eg. exercise, bowel training diet, hydration.