The nurse is planning a teaching session regarding peptic ulcers ...

[OSWALD]

The nurse is planning a teaching session regarding peptic ulcers for the residents of an assisted-living complex. Which concepts about peptic ulcer disease should the nurse include in the presentation to the residents?
 
  Select all that apply.
  A) A colonoscopy is the most common test used to diagnose the presence of a gastric ulcer.
  B) Gastric ulcers are more common than duodenal ulcers.
  C) Many peptic ulcers are infected with H. pylori and are treated with antibiotics.
  D) The first sign of a peptic ulcer may be serious gastrointestinal bleeding.
  E) The individual with a peptic ulcer will most likely experience pain after eating.

Question 2

The nurse is teaching a client with a peptic ulcer on appropriate lifestyle alterations. The family voices questions as to why some of the recommendations have been made. Which explanation should be offered by the nurse?
 
  A) Alcohol acts to suppress gastric immunity and should be avoided.
  B) Caffeine intake is often associated with an increase in abdominal pain.
  C) Cigarette smoking doubles the risk of developing peptic ulcer disease and should be avoided.
  D) Alcohol stimulates gastric acid secretion, which can cause further irritation.

[vseab]

Answer to Question 1

Answer: C, D, E

The client with a peptic ulcer may be largely asymptomatic until there is an episode of gastrointestinal bleeding. Duodenal ulcers are more common than gastric ulcers. The individual who has a peptic ulcer will most likely have abdominal pain after food intake. Tests used to diagnose a gastric ulcer include an endoscopy and H. pylori testing. Peptic ulcers that are infected with H. pylori will often be treated with antibiotics.

Answer to Question 2

Answer: C

Alcohol stimulates gastric acid secretion. This excess acid will promote gastric irritation. Cigarette smoking is a significant risk factor, doubling the risk of PUD. Cigarette smoking inhibits the secretion of bicarbonate by the pancreas and may cause more rapid transit of gastric acid into the duodenum. Caffeine is not usually associated with abdominal pain, but it does increase the risk of peptic ulcer disease.