Gastrointestinal Disorders and Hiatal Hernia Study Guide

This set of flashcards covers key concepts, definitions, and treatment options related to gastrointestinal disorders, focusing on hiatal hernias, gastritis, peptic ulcer disease, and inflammatory bowel disease.

What is a hiatal hernia?

A protrusion of a portion of the stomach into the esophagus through an opening (hiatus) in the diaphragm.

What are the two types of hiatal hernias?

Sliding hiatal hernia and paraesophageal (rolling) hiatal hernia.

What is a sliding hiatal hernia?

A type of hiatal hernia that is relieved when the patient stands up.

What are the common causes of sliding hiatal hernias?

Increases in intraabdominal pressure, tight clothing, bending over, squatting, and obesity.

What are the clinical manifestations of hiatal hernias?

Asymptomatic, pyrosis (heartburn), dyspepsia, respiratory symptoms, and dysphagia.

What are the symptoms associated with paraesophageal hiatal hernias?

Substernal pain, fullness, nausea/vomiting, and regurgitation that is bitter, hot, or sour.

What diagnostic study helps visualize the gastroesophageal junction?

Barium swallow.

What is the first-line treatment for sliding hiatal hernias that are symptomatic?

Lifestyle modifications including dietary changes and avoiding activities that increase intraabdominal pressure.

What medications are commonly used to manage hiatal hernias?

Histamine 2 (H2) receptor blockers, proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), and prokinetics.

What is the main surgical procedure for treating rolling hiatal hernias?

Nissen fundoplication.

What are some complications associated with hiatal hernias?

GERD, esophagitis, hemorrhage, strangulation, and ulcers.

What is gastritis?

Inflammation of the gastric mucosa due to the compromise of the protective barrier.

What is the difference between acute and chronic gastritis?

Acute gastritis is self-limiting, while chronic gastritis is persistent and often related to long-term issues.

What are the common risk factors for gastritis?

Long-term use of NSAIDs, excess alcohol consumption, and H. pylori infection.

What is the key symptom of peptic ulcer disease (PUD)?

Pain typically occurring 1-2 hours after meals in gastric ulcers and 2-5 hours after meals in duodenal ulcers.

What is the most common cause of peptic ulcer disease?

H. pylori infection.

What are the complications of PUD?

GI bleed, perforation, and gastric outlet obstruction.

What dietary changes are recommended for patients with diverticulosis?

A high-fiber diet and increased fluid intake.

What is diverticulitis?

Inflammation of the diverticula, often caused by low fiber intake and increased intraabdominal pressure.

What are the clinical manifestations of diverticulosis?

Usually asymptomatic but can include left lower quadrant pain, bloating, and changes in bowel habits.

What is the recommended treatment for diverticulitis during acute exacerbation?

NPO status, bowel rest, and possibly antibiotics.

What is IBD (Inflammatory Bowel Disease) and its two main types?

IBD includes ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease.

What are common symptoms of ulcerative colitis?

Bloody diarrhea, abdominal pain, weight loss, and fever.

What is a key characteristic of Crohn's disease?

Skip lesions that affect any part of the GI tract from mouth to anus.

What medications are commonly used to treat inflammatory bowel disease?

Corticosteroids, immunosuppressants, and biologic therapies.

What is the primary nursing goal for patients with IBD?

To control inflammation, manage symptoms, and correct nutritional imbalances.