Week 1 - GI Disorders

What is the recommended treatment for gingivitis?

Brush your teeth twice a day, floss regularly, and visit the dentist for routine cleanings.

Why should patients with GERD eat 4–6 small meals daily?

Smaller, more frequent meals reduce stomach pressure and decrease reflux episodes.

What types of foods should GERD patients avoid and why?

They should avoid foods that decrease lower esophageal sphincter (LES) pressure, such as spicy foods, tomato-based products, citrus juices (like orange juice), and coffee, because they can worsen reflux symptoms.

What is Barrett’s Esophagus and why is it significant in GERD patients?

Barrett’s Esophagus is a condition where the normal esophageal epithelium converts to a columnar lining, increasing the risk of esophageal cancer.

Why should patients with GERD avoid lying down after eating?

Lying down can promote reflux of stomach acid into the esophagus, so patients should remain upright to reduce symptoms.

Why should GERD patients be educated to avoid drinking and eating at the same time?

Consuming fluids with meals can distend the stomach and increase reflux; spacing liquids and solids helps reduce this risk.

What should patients know about GERD medications?

They should understand the importance of adhering to their regimen and be aware of possible side effects of medications like PPIs or H2 blockers.

What are some non-modifiable risk factors associated with peptic ulcers?

Family history of ulcers and having type O blood.

What modifiable risk factors should patients be educated about to prevent peptic ulcers?

Tobacco use, caffeine intake, use of glucocorticoids and NSAIDs, and psychological stress.

What is the primary cause of most peptic ulcers?

Infection with Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori), a gram-negative bacterium.

What are common symptoms of appendicitis?

Right lower quadrant abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting.

What physical exam findings are associated with appendicitis?

Rebound tenderness and abdominal guarding.

What diagnostic tools are used to confirm an intestinal obstruction?

X-rays, CT scan, complete blood count with differential WBC, barium swallow or barium enema, and careful history and physical examination.

What are common causes of constipation?

Lack of exercise, insufficient dietary fiber, diminished fluid intake, slow intestinal motility, certain foods, medications, and underlying diseases.

How does low fiber intake lead to constipation?

It causes stool to stay in the intestine longer, allowing too much water to be reabsorbed, which leads to hard, dry stools.

What should a nurse assess first when a patient complains of constipation?

The patient’s dietary habits and fluid intake.

What non-pharmacologic interventions should be tried before using medications for constipation?

Increase dietary fiber and fluid intake, and encourage physical activity.

What is a common pharmacologic treatment for constipation?

Laxatives such as Metamucil (a bulk-forming laxative).

What are common pharmacologic treatments for diarrhea?

Antidiarrheal drugs such as Lomotil and Loperamide.