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

Assess and manage upper gastrointestinal problems such as nausea and vomiting, GORD, and peptic ulcer disease. Learn about the aetiology and pathophysiology, as well as comprehensive nursing assessments and targeted care plans.