Feel the Burn
What causes GERD?
Backflow of stomach acid into the esophagus due to a weak lower esophageal sphrincter (LES)
Name one common food that triggers GERD.
Chocolate
Caffeine
Citrus
Tomato
Spicy foods
Fatty foods
Which prescribed medication would protect the esophagus/stomach lining?
Carafate (Sucralfate)
How long should a petient wait to lie down after eating?
2-3 hours
What is the most common complication of chronic GERD?
Esophagitis
Name one condition that increases GERD risk.
Hiatel Hernia
Obesity
Pregnancy
Gastroparesis
What bedtime habit can make GERD symptoms worse?
Lying flat immediately after eating
What teaching is important for patients taking sucralfate (Carafate)?
Take it on an empty stomach
Take 1 hour before meals
Avoid taking with other medications
What type of clothing should be avoided?
tight fitting clothing or belts that increase abdominal pressure
Which precancerous condition can develop from chronic GERD?
Barrett's esophagus
Which type of medication can increase the risk for GERD by lowering LES tone?
Calcium channel blockers, nitrates, or anticholinergics
Which lifestyle modification can reduce nighttime reflux?
Elevating the head of the bed.
Why should antacids be given 1-3 hours after meals?
What is the best position to reduce reflux?
Left lateral or head elevated 30 degrees
What symptom might suggest a stricture or narrowing of the esophagus?
Dysphagia
Why does obesity increase the risk for GERD?
Increased intra-abdominal pressure pushes acid up through the LES.
Name one drink you would recommend avoiding.
Coffee
Soda
Alcohol
Citrus juice
Peppermint tea
Which medication is commonly prescribed to decrease acid production?
Protonix (Pantoprazole)
What should a patient avoid doing after large meals?
Lying down
Vigorous exercise
What test is used to confirm GERD diagnosis?
24-hour pH monitoring or endoscopy
Explain how delayed gastric emptying contributes to GERD symptoms.
It increases stomach pressure and volume, which promotes reflux of gastric contents.
A patient says, "I've started walking right after meals." Is that a good idea for GERD management?
Yes - light walking aids digestion and reduces reflux risk.
Name the drug class of Carafate (sucralfate) and Protonix (Pantoprazole)
Proton Pump Inhibitor (PPI)
Which medication class should the patient avoid to reduce stomach irritation?
Acetaminophen based medications
A patient with GERD reports black, tarry stools. What does the nurse suspect?
GI bleeding - possible ulcer or severe esophagitis; report immediately.