Nursing Care Plan for Gastric Ulcer

Introduction:

Gastric ulcers are open sores that develop on the lining of the stomach, often caused by the erosion of the protective mucus layer. As a nurse, your role is crucial in the assessment, management, and support of patients with gastric ulcers. This nursing care plan aims to outline evidence-based interventions to assess, manage, and support patients with gastric ulcers.

Patient Assessment:

• Name: [Patient’s Name]
• Age: [Patient’s Age]
• Gender: [Patient’s Gender]
• Medical History: [Brief summary of patient’s medical history]
• Underlying Cause of Gastric Ulcer: [Identify the underlying cause, such as Helicobacter pylori infection or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) use]
• Date of Admission: [Date of Admission]
• Date of Care Plan: [Date of Care Plan]

Subjective Data:

• Patients may report symptoms such as abdominal pain or discomfort, especially after eating.
• The patient may describe the pain as burning or gnawing in nature and may report a decrease in appetite or weight loss.
• Patients may express concerns about the impact of the gastric ulcer on their health and daily life.

Objective Data:

• Physical examination findings may include tenderness or epigastric pain upon palpation of the abdomen.
• Laboratory results may show anemia or other abnormal blood values related to bleeding from the ulcer site.
• Diagnostic tests such as endoscopy may reveal the presence of a gastric ulcer.

Nursing Diagnosis For Gastric Ulcer:

1. Acute Pain related to gastric ulcer and inflammation.
2. Risk for Imbalanced Nutrition: Less than Body Requirements related to decreased appetite and altered digestion.
3. Deficient Knowledge regarding gastric ulcers, treatment, and self-care measures.
4. Risk for Impaired Tissue Integrity related to ulcerative process and potential complications.

Nursing Interventions For Gastric Ulcer:

Acute Pain:

1. Assess the patient’s pain level, location, and characteristics regularly.
2. Administer prescribed pain medications, such as proton pump inhibitors or antacids, to reduce gastric acid secretion and relieve pain.
3. Encourage the patient to maintain a calm and stress-free environment, as stress can exacerbate gastric ulcer symptoms.
4. Provide education on stress reduction techniques, such as deep breathing exercises or relaxation exercises, to help manage pain.

Risk for Imbalanced Nutrition: Less than Body Requirements:

1. Assess the patient’s dietary intake, appetite, and weight regularly.
2. Collaborate with the healthcare team to develop a nutrition plan that includes small, frequent meals with a focus on nutrient-dense foods.
3. Educate the patient about dietary modifications, such as avoiding spicy or acidic foods, caffeine, and alcohol, which can aggravate gastric ulcer symptoms.
4. Encourage the patient to consume foods that promote gastric ulcer healing, such as high-fiber foods, fruits, and vegetables.

Deficient Knowledge:

1. Assess the patient’s understanding of gastric ulcers, including causes, risk factors, and potential complications.
2. Provide education on gastric ulcers, emphasizing the importance of medication adherence, dietary modifications, and regular follow-up appointments.
3. Teach the patient about self-care measures, such as avoiding smoking, managing stress, and adhering to prescribed treatment regimens.
4. Offer written materials, reliable resources, or referrals to support groups for additional information and ongoing support.

Risk for Impaired Tissue Integrity:

1. Assess the patient’s ulcer site regularly for signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, or discharge.
2. Collaborate with the healthcare team to implement appropriate ulcer management strategies, such as dressing changes or topical treatments.
3. Educate the patient about the importance of maintaining good hygiene and reporting any signs of infection promptly.
4. Encourage the patient to avoid non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or consult with their healthcare provider before using any new medications.

Gastric Ulcer Evaluation:

1. Relief of acute pain associated with gastric ulcer and inflammation.
2. Improved nutritional status through dietary modifications and increased intake of nutrient-dense foods.
3. Increased knowledge and understanding of gastric ulcers, treatment options, and self-care measures.
4. Prevention of complications and promotion of tissue healing through proper ulcer management.

Documentation: Regularly document the patient’s pain assessments, dietary intake, educational interventions, ulcer site assessments, and the patient’s response to treatment. Collaborate with the interdisciplinary healthcare team to review and update the care plan based on the patient’s condition and evolving needs.

Note: This nursing care plan is a general guideline and should be individualized based on the patient’s specific needs, type and stage of gastric ulcer, treatment plan, and healthcare provider’s recommendations.