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Digestive System

Unit 11 Lesson 2

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Explain the function of the digestive system
Describe care interventions for clients experiencing digestive problems
Identify specific digestive signs and symptoms that are reported to the nurse

Student Learning Outcomes

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Digestive System

Series of organs working together for food processing
Begins in the mouth, ends with feces expulsion
Key functions

Ingestion
Digestion
Absorption
Elimination

Sandquist-Reuter, 2023

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Function of the Digestive System

Ingestion involves sensory perception

Smell
Taste

Saliva initiation for lubrication and enzyme release
Chewing: Mechanical breakdown
Saliva: chemical breakdown

Sandquist-Reuter, 2023

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Digestive Process

Bolus formation(chewed food) in the mouth
Esophagus

Peristalsis moves bolus down

Epiglottis prevents aspiration into lungs

Sandquist-Reuter, 2023

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Absorption and Elimination

Small intestine

25-30 feet
Nutrient absorption

Large intestine

8-10 feet
Water absorption
Feces formation

Efficient nutrient and water absorption critical for health

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The Digestive System

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Critical Thinking Question

A resident complains of constipation and difficulty passing stools. As a nurse's aide, what is the most appropriate intervention to help alleviate this issue?

A) Suggest the resident try herbal teas for digestion.

B) Advise the resident to take frequent naps.

C) Recommend the resident reduce their food intake.

D) Encourage increased water and fiber intake.

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Age-Related Changes in Digestion

Decreased saliva affects

Chewing
Swallowing

Weakened epiglottis increases aspiration risk
Slower peristalsis causes

Constipation
Bowel issues

Sandquist-Reuter, 2023

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Common Digestive Issues

Bowel Obstruction

Stops bolus movement
Potential tissue death
Surgical intervention

Stoma or colostomy

Impact on elimination and nutrition

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Stoma

Stoma With a Wafer Placed to Attach the Drainage Bag

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Care Interventions

Enhancing Digestive Health

Encourage fiber, water, fluids for smooth digestion
Promote physical activity to stimulate peristalsis
Observe and report abnormalities to nurse promptly

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Critical Thinking Question

A resident with a history of GERD mentions experiencing frequent heartburn after meals. What is the best practice to help manage this symptom?

A) Suggest the resident drink milk with meals.

B) Encourage smaller, more frequent meals.

C) Recommend spicy foods to aid digestion.

D) Advise the resident to sleep immediately after eating.

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Specific Digestive Diagnoses

Hemorrhoids

Caused by straining, aging
Symptoms

Pain
Swelling
Bleeding

Interventions
Creams
Hygiene
Avoid long toilet sitting

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Specific Digestive Diagnoses continued…

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

Symptoms

Pain
Bloating
Alternating bowel habits

Manage with dietary changes, stress reduction

Sandquist-Reuter, 2023

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Critical Thinking Question

A resident reports bloating, gas, and diarrhea after consuming dairy products. What is the most appropriate action for a nurse’s aide?

A. Document the resident’s symptoms and report them to the nurse.

B. Encourage the resident to avoid dairy products.

C. Give the resident over-the-counter medication for relief.

D. Recommend a special diet to manage symptoms.

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Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)

Avoid large, late meals and trigger foods
Lifestyle changes

Elevate bed�Quit smoking

Monitor and prevent symptom triggers

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Food Intolerances

Symptoms

Gas
Bloating
Diarrhea

Solutions

Lactose-free, gluten-free alternatives

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Food Allergies

Symptoms

Hives
Swelling
Breathing issues

Immediate action required for anaphylaxis

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Critical Thinking Question

A resident reports a rash and difficulty breathing after consuming shellfish. What should be the nurse's aide's immediate action?

A) Offer an antihistamine and observe the resident.

B) Report symptoms to the nurse immediately.

C) Suggest the resident drink warm water.

D) Encourage the resident to rest until symptoms improve.

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References

Sandquist-Reuter, M. (2023). Nursing Assistant. WisTech Open. https://wtcs.pressbooks.pub/nurseassist/

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