Upper Gastrointestinal Problems in Nursing Care

Upper Gastrointestinal Problems: Aetiology and Pathophysiology

• Aetiology of upper gastrointestinal problems includes:
  • Infection (e.g., H. pylori)
  • Inflammation (e.g., gastritis)
  • Lifestyle factors (e.g., diet, smoking, stress)
  • Medication side effects (e.g., NSAIDs)
  • Genetic predisposition
• Pathophysiology of upper gastrointestinal problems involves:
  • Disruption of normal gut function and motility
  • Inflammation and damage to the mucosal lining
  • Imbalance of gut hormones and neurotransmitters
  • Impaired digestion and absorption of nutrients

Comprehensive Focused Nursing Assessment

• Nursing assessment requires a holistic approach, considering:
  • Medical history and current medications
  • Dietary habits and nutritional intake
  • Lifestyle factors (e.g., smoking, stress, physical activity)
  • Psychological and emotional well-being
  • Abdominal examination and assessment of vital signs
  • Laboratory and diagnostic test results (e.g., endoscopy, biopsy)

Nursing and Interdisciplinary Management of Nausea and Vomiting

• Nausea and vomiting management involves:
  • Pharmacological interventions (e.g., antiemetics, antihistamines)
  • Non-pharmacological interventions (e.g., relaxation techniques, ginger therapy)
  • Fluid and electrolyte management to prevent dehydration
  • Dietary modifications (e.g., small, frequent meals, bland diet)
  • Collaboration with interdisciplinary team members (e.g., physicians, dietitians, occupational therapists)

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GORD)

• GORD management involves:
  • Lifestyle modifications (e.g., weight loss, avoiding trigger foods, elevating head of bed)
  • Pharmacological interventions (e.g., antacids, proton pump inhibitors)
  • Surgical interventions (e.g., laparoscopic fundoplication) for severe cases
  • Patient education and awareness of disease management

Peptic Ulcer Disease

• Peptic ulcer disease management involves:
  • Eradication of H. pylori infection (if present)
  • Pharmacological interventions (e.g., antacids, proton pump inhibitors, histamine-2 blockers)
  • Dietary modifications (e.g., avoiding spicy or acidic foods, small, frequent meals)
  • Stress management and relaxation techniques

Assessment of Alcohol Withdrawal and Targeted Care Plan

• Assessment of alcohol withdrawal requires:
  • Identification of risk factors (e.g., history of alcohol dependence, recent cessation)
  • Monitoring of withdrawal symptoms (e.g., tremors, anxiety, seizures)
  • Implementing a targeted care plan, including:
    • Pharmacological interventions (e.g., benzodiazepines, anticonvulsants)
    • Supportive care (e.g., fluids, nutrition, comfort measures)
    • Referral to addiction services and counseling