Week 9 Flashcards
What are the main structures of the gastrointestinal system?
Mouth, esophagus, stomach, small intestine, large intestine, rectum, anus, liver, gallbladder, pancreas
What are the four main functions of the gastrointestinal system?
Ingestion, digestion, absorption, elimination
What stimulates the appetite center located in the hypothalamus?
Hypoglycemia, empty stomach, decreased body temperature, brain input, hormones (ghrelin, leptin)
What is deglutition?
Swallowing
Where does digestion begin?
In the mouth
What are the primary functions of the small intestine?
Digestion and absorption
What is the most important function of the large intestine?
Absorption of water and electrolytes
What is haustral churning?
A process in the large intestine that aids in mixing and moving contents
What is the Valsalva maneuver?
A technique used to facilitate defecation
What are the two primary functions of the liver?
Manufacture and storage of substances involved in metabolism
What are the exocrine functions of the pancreas?
Contributes to digestion
What subjective data should be collected during a gastrointestinal assessment?
Appetite, dysphagia, food intolerance, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, bowel habits, nutrition assessment
What causes diarrhea?
Decreased fluid absorption, increased fluid secretion, motility disturbances
What is the definition of constipation?
Decrease in the frequency of bowel movements; typically hard, difficult-to-pass stools
What are some nursing interventions for nausea?
IV fluid therapy with electrolyte and glucose replacement until able to tolerate oral intake
What are the complications of prolonged or chronic constipation?
Hemorrhoids, bowel obstructions
What diagnostic tests are commonly used for the gastrointestinal system?
Blood tests, abdominal ultrasound, stool samples, upper/lower gastrointestinal series
What is gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)?
Clinically significant symptomatic condition or histopathological alteration due to reflux of gastric contents into the lower esophagus
What are common clinical manifestations of GERD?
Burning/tightness in the esophagus, wheezing, coughing
What are the major complications of GERD?
Esophagitis, esophageal stricture, Barrett’s Esophagus, bronchospasm, aspiration, dental erosion
What are the clinical manifestations of peptic ulcer disease (PUD)?
Pain, nausea, vomiting, weight loss, complications such as hemorrhage, perforation, gastric outlet obstruction
What is the treatment approach for peptic ulcer disease?
Rest, dietary modifications, lifestyle changes, drug therapy (PPIs, antacids, antibiotics), surgical management
What is the role of the gallbladder in the gastrointestinal system?
Storage and concentration of bile
What are the functions of bile?
Aids in digestion and absorption of fats