Question

A newborn infant is diagnosed with gastroesophageal reflux (GER). The mother of the infant asks the nurse to explain the diagnosis. The nurse plans to base the response on which description of this disorder?

a) Delayed emptying of the stomach contents into the small intestine
b) Backward flow of stomach contents into the esophagus
c) Absence of gastric acid production
d) Inflammation of the stomach lining

Answer 1

Gastroesophageal reflux (GER) is the backward flow of stomach contents into the esophagus. This condition can lead to heartburn and is caused by the failure of the gastro-esophageal sphincter to remain completely closed. Lifestyle changes can alleviate GER and occasional heartburn.

Step-by-step explanation:

Gastroesophageal reflux (GER) is the backward flow of stomach contents into the esophagus. Normally, the gastro-esophageal sphincter prevents the contents of the stomach from traveling up the esophagus. When this sphincter fails to remain completely closed, it can lead to GER. The highly acidic contents of the stomach can cause damage to the mucous membrane of the esophagus, resulting in heartburn. Lifestyle changes can help reduce the amount and acidity of reflux from the stomach into the esophagus, improving GER and occasional heartburn.