The nurse is explaining the alteration in normal function to a client recently diagnosed with gastrointestinal reflux disease (GERD). Which etiology contributing to GERD will the nurse include in the teaching session?

A) Transient constriction of the lower esophageal sphincter
B) Decreased pressure within the stomach
C) Incompetent lower esophageal sphincter
D) Prolonged constriction of the upper esophageal sphincter


Answer: C

An incompetent lower esophageal sphincter remains open, allowing gastric acid to reflux into the esophagus. The lower esophageal sphincter is normally constricted except during swallowing. Increased pressure in the stomach can cause acid to reflux into the esophagus. The action of the upper esophageal sphincter is not a cause of GERD.

Nursing

You might also like to view...

Your clinic patients respond negatively to the need for a yearly flu shot. They ask why the medical communities don't just create one shot that will last for several years. You explain that

A) genetic changes occur in the flu virus each year resulting in new strains. B) genetic changes make the flu virus resistant to the flu shot from year to year. C) there is more than one strain of the flu virus and you must be protected from all of them. D) the shots last only for 3 to 6 months and must be renewed on a yearly basis.

Nursing

Overweight people

A. are commonly stereotyped because of their size. B. seldom experience discrimination or insensitivity. C. are usually at fault for their size because they eat too much. D. can readily overcome prejudice and other obstacles.

Nursing

The nurse is admitting a patient whose present health condition has led to a sharp decline in her performance of activities of daily living

After the admission assessment, the nurse collaborates with the physician and arranges for an occupational therapist to assess the patient's needs. The nurse suggests this consult for which primary purpose? A) To reduce the work load of nursing staff B) To complete the treatment plan in a timely manner C) To expand the nurse's scope of practice D) To enhance the client's health outcomes

Nursing

The responsibility for nutritional assessment and support in most health care facilities belongs to which individuals?

1. The client 2. The primary care provider 3. The nurse 4. The dietitian or nutritionist 5. The food service staff

Nursing