The nurse is gathering information from a patient who has GERD. Which of the following observations is a symptom of GERD?

Choice A rationale
While administering pain medication can provide temporary relief for a client with severe abdominal pain, it does not address the underlying issue of a perforated peptic ulcer. Pain medication should be administered as part of a comprehensive treatment plan, but it should not be the first step in managing a perforated peptic ulcer.
Choice B rationale
Initiating IV fluid resuscitation is a crucial first step in the management of a client presenting with severe abdominal pain and a history of peptic ulcer disease. A perforated peptic ulcer is a medical emergency that can lead to infection and shock, and IV fluid resuscitation can help stabilize the client’s condition while further diagnostic and therapeutic measures are taken.

Choice A rationale

Acute pancreatitis is a condition characterized by inflammation of the pancreas. The most common cause of acute pancreatitis is gallstones, which can become lodged in a bile or pancreatic duct and cause inflammation. Gallstones are hardened deposits of digestive fluid that can form in your gallbladder, and when they block the ducts leading from the gallbladder to the intestines, they can cause sharp pain in the upper abdomen that quickly worsens. This pain can radiate to the back, another common symptom of acute pancreatitis. Therefore, a history of gallstones is a significant factor to anticipate in a client with acute pancreatitis.
Choice B rationale
GERD, or gastroesophageal reflux disease, is a chronic condition where stomach acid flows back up into the esophagus causing heartburn and other symptoms. While GERD can lead to discomfort and complications like esophagitis, it does not typically cause acute pancreatitis.
Choice C rationale
Diabetes mellitus is a chronic condition that affects the body’s ability to use blood sugar for energy. While diabetes can lead to a host of health complications, it is not typically a direct cause of acute pancreatitis.
Choice D rationale
Shock is a life-threatening condition that requires immediate medical attention. It occurs when the body is not getting enough blood flow, leading to insufficient oxygen and nutrients for your cells and organs. Shock can be a result of severe acute pancreatitis, but it is not a cause.