Nursing 213

N213: Health Differences Across the Lifespan 3 Study Guide

Gastritis This is an acute inflammation of the stomach lining or gastric mucosa. It is caused by increased stomach acid irritating the lining of the stomach. This condition can also be chronic. The stomach acid breaks down the gastric barrier and damages the mucosa. This causes the body to release pepsin and histamines. This causes the tiny capillary walls to become disrupted, leading to edema and even bleeding. Acute gastritis is caused by many factors including food poisoning, spicy foods, alcohol, overeating, aspirin, radiation therapy, bile reflux, and ingesting acids or alkaline substances. Chronic gastritis can be caused by drug use, smoking, spicy foods, hot drinks, chronic alcohol use, GERD, vitamin B12 deficiency, or stress. In severe cases of gastritis, the stomach wall can perforate, develop ulcers, or gangrene. Signs and symptoms of acute gastritis: • Colicky pain • Diarrhea • Epigastric tenderness • Anorexia • Nausea • Vomiting • Feeling of fullness • Possibly no symptoms Signs and symptoms of chronic gastritis: • Heartburn after meals • Loss of appetite • Sour taste in mouth • Belching • Nausea • Vomiting • Vitamin B deficiency • Possibly asymptomatic Nursing assessment for gastritis: • Full abdominal assessment: inspection, auscultation, percussion, and palpation • Inquire about history of symptoms: what precipitates them, when they occur, and if they are related to diet/eating • Take a thorough dietary and lifestyle history including foods eaten, alcohol use, and smoking • Review laboratory and procedure reports: o HCL levels o Upper gastrointestinal x-rays o Gastroscopy (upper endoscopy)

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