Functional GI Disorders (Obstruction, Ileus, Diabetic Gastroparesis, Gastroesophageal Reflux, Irritable Bowel Syndrome) for Progressive Care Certified Nurse (PCCN)

Functional GI Disorders (Obstruction, Ileus, Diabetic Gastroparesis, Gastroesophageal Reflux, Irritable Bowel Syndrome)

Definition/Etiology:

• Gastroesophageal reflux= acid moves back into esophagus
• Diabetic gastroparesis= digestion affected in stomach
• Ileus= peristalsis stalled
• Obstruction= peristalsis stopped
• Irritable Bowel Syndrome= digestion and peristalsis affected

Pathophysiology:

• Gastroesophageal reflux
• Diabetic gastroparesis
• Ileus
• Obstruction
• Irritable Bowel Syndrome
• Will draw on pictures the area affected and why the affected areas relates to the patient’s symptoms

Noticing: Assessment & Recognizing Cues:

• Signs/symptoms (GI conditions)
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Abdominal bloating
  • Abdominal pain
  • Acid reflux
  • Weight loss and malnutrition
  • Constipation/diarrhea

Interpreting: Analyzing & Planning:

• Abdominal x-ray
• CT scan
• Ultrasound
• Endoscopy
• Colonoscopy
• Stool sample

Responding: Patient Interventions & Taking Action:

• Bowel rest
• NG tube
• Antiemetics
• Proton pump inhibitors
• Laxative/anti-diarrheal meds

Reflecting: Evaluating Patient Outcomes:

• Bowel function restored/improved.

Linchpins (Key Points):

• Gut is not moving food through appropriately. Too much acid and/or peristalsis slowed or stopped.
  • Gastroesophageal reflux = too much acid
  • Diabetic gastroparesis/ileus= digestion/peristalsis stalled
  • Obstruction= peristalsis stopped
  • Irritable Bowel Syndrome = digestion and peristalsis affected