Gastritis

Gastritis

1. pathophysiology

   • Inflammation of the gastric mucosa that occurs as the result of a breakdown in the normal gastric mucosal barrier.  Most common problems affecting the stomach and may be acute or chronic and diffuse or localized.  

2. clinical manifestations

   • Acute and chronic gastritis - anorexia, nausea, vomiting, epigastric tenderness, a feeling of fullness and even asymptomatic.  
   • interventions
     • Eliminating the cause and preventing or avoiding it in the future.  Eliminating such things as certain drugs, alcohol, and/or foods.  Treat symptoms.  May need to promote rest.  Pt may need to be NPO and/or receive IV fluids.  NG tube may be needed to monitor for bleeding, lavage the precipitating agent from the stomach, and/or keep the stomach empty and free of noxious stimuli.  Drug therapy to reduce pain, irritation of the gastric mucosa, and providing symptomatic relief.  Clear liquids and slowly reintroduce solids.  Nonirritating diet.  Stop smoking. Encourage fluids and monitor for dehydration.  Vital signs  frequently if pt is at risk for hemorrhage.    

3. diagnostic studies

   • Diagnosed based on pt's symptoms and history of drug or alcohol use.  Endoscopic exam with biopsies.  Breath, urine, serum, stool, and gastric tissue biopsy tests - assess for H. pylori infection.  CBC may show anemia.  Stools tested for occult blood.  Serum tests for antibodies to parietal cells and intrinsic factor.  Tissue biopsy can rule out gastric cancer.  

4. interprofessional care

   • Doctor, nurse, dietitian, possible GI doctor and pharmacist.  Pt may have to adapt to some lifestyle changes and strictly adhere to a drug regimen.  

5. nursing diagnosis

   • Acute pain.  Imbalanced nutrition less than body requirements.  Risk for fluid volume deficit.