Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease: Presentation and Treatment

Course overview

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is one of the most common GI complaints that healthcare providers encounter. The backflow of the acidic gastric or duodenal contents into the esophagus can result in heartburn. Healthcare professionals play an important role in detecting early symptoms of GERD and helping patients manage the disease. Pre-existing conditions that increase the risk of GERD include obesity, smoking, and certain medications. With appropriate lifestyle and dietary changes, many of the symptoms of GERD can be mitigated. Medications and surgical interventions may be required when lifestyle changes are unsuccessful. This course describes GERD, its risk factors, diagnostics, and treatments. The goal of this course is to provide nursing and nutrition and dietetics professionals in acute care settings with knowledge about gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).