OVERVIEW
Reflux esophagitis (GERD) is an inflammatory disease of the esophagus caused by the reflux of gastric and duodenal contents into the esophagus. People who are obese, smokers, alcohol drinkers, stressed, middle-aged or elderly are at high risk for GERD. Its typical symptoms are burning sensation behind the sternum (heartburn), reflux and chest pain. The detection and examination and management of health problems such as retrosternal burning sensation, acid reflux, and dysphagia in patients with reflux esophagitis are of great significance to the treatment and prognosis of patients.
Main nursing problems
1. nutritional disorders.
2. Pain.
Nursing measures
1. Postural care
Instruct patients to take upright or semi-sitting position after meals, for patients with more serious reflux, the head of the bed should be raised 20-30cm when lying down.
2. Medication care
Instruct and advise patients to take medication as prescribed by the doctor, and not to change the type of medication, increase or decrease the amount of medication, or even stop taking medication without authorization. Observe the efficacy and adverse reactions of the drugs.
3. Oral care
Patients who can take care of themselves should brush their teeth in the morning and evening and rinse their mouths after meals. For patients without self-care ability, nursing staff should choose appropriate mouthwash solution for them and do oral care.
4. Complications care
Closely observe the patient’s condition, and report to the doctor in time if complications such as reflux ulcerative esophagitis, pneumonia or bleeding are difficult to control.
5. Dietary care
Instruct patients to eat small meals, choose low-fat and easy-to-digest diets, increase soybean products, lean pork, eggs and other foods appropriately, eat less or not eat fried foods, avoid spicy and stimulating diets, and avoid strong tea, coffee, chocolate and other foods. Drink appropriate amount of warm boiled water after meal and reflux to reduce the stimulation of food to the esophagus. Give fluid or semi-fluid diet to patients with difficulty in swallowing, and fast if necessary. Do not eat 3 to 4 hours before bedtime.
Health education
1. Adhere to the medication as prescribed by the doctor and review regularly.
2. Sit or walk slowly for 30 minutes after eating, and do physical exercise appropriately.
3. Keep a good attitude and avoid mental stress.
4. If there is any burning sensation behind the sternum, black stools, or persistent pain that does not subside, consult a doctor promptly.