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A nurse is explaining the physiology of GERD to a group of clients. What happens when the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) weakens in GERD?

A.

Stomach acid production decreases significantly

B.

Stomach contents flow back into the esophagus

C.

Digestive enzymes are overproduced in the stomach

D.

The diaphragm muscle contracts forcefully

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is B

A) Incorrect. Weakening of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) does not lead to a significant decrease in stomach acid production.

B) Correct. When the LES weakens, it allows stomach contents, including acid, to flow back into the esophagus, resulting in the characteristic symptoms of GERD.

C) Incorrect. Weakening of the LES is not associated with an overproduction of digestive enzymes in the stomach.

D) Incorrect. The diaphragm muscle is not directly involved in the weakening of the LES in GERD. It is primarily related to the relaxation of the LES.


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Related Questions

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

A) Incorrect. Upper endoscopy (EGD) involves the direct visualization of the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum using a flexible tube with a camera. It does not measure muscle pressure and coordination.

B) Correct. Esophageal manometry is a diagnostic test that measures the pressure and coordination of the muscles in the esophagus. It helps evaluate the function of the esophageal muscles and the lower esophageal sphincter.

C) Incorrect. 24-hour pH monitoring measures the amount of acid in the esophagus over a 24-hour period. It does not assess muscle pressure and coordination.

D) Incorrect. An upper gastrointestinal (GI) series involves X-ray imaging of the esophagus, stomach, and small intestine with the use of a contrast material. It does not measure muscle pressure and coordination.

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

A) Correct. An upper gastrointestinal (GI) series involves X-ray imaging of the esophagus, stomach, and small intestine using a contrast material. It is useful for detecting structural abnormalities and evaluating the function of the digestive tract.

B) Incorrect. Esophageal manometry measures the pressure and coordination of the muscles in the esophagus. It does not involve X-ray imaging.

C) Incorrect. Upper endoscopy (EGD) involves the direct visualization of the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum using a flexible tube with a camera. It does not use X-ray imaging with contrast material.

D) Incorrect. 24-hour pH monitoring measures the amount of acid in the esophagus over a 24-hour period and does not involve X-ray imaging.

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