Achalasia - Case Presentation
Achalasia - Case Presentation
Achalasia - Case Presentation
Achalasia
Submitted to:
Submitted by:
Jennifer B. Lorenzana
Trizia Deanne L. Omol
Jean anthonette P. McGinley
Ryan Greg L.Molina
March 31, 2022
TABLE OF CONTENTS:
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I. ABSTRACT ----------------------------------------------------------------------- 4
● Ideal
● Actual
o Drug study
o Procedures / Surgeries
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● Spirituality
XIV. APPENDICES
● Definition of terms
● Bibliography
I. Abstract
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University Medical Center last March 23, 2022 with the diagnosis of Achalasia and
complained nausea and vomiting, his pain scale was 7/10. Achalasia is a rare disorder
that makes it difficult for food and liquid to pass from the swallowing tube connecting
your mouth and stomach (esophagus) into your stomach. Achalasia occurs when
nerves in the esophagus become damaged. As a result, the esophagus becomes
paralyzed and dilated over time and eventually loses the ability to squeeze food down
into the stomach. Food then collects in the esophagus, sometimes fermenting and
washing back up into the mouth, which can taste bitter. Some people mistake this for
gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). However, in achalasia the food is coming
from the esophagus, whereas in GERD the material comes from the stomach.
The study made use of the three C‘s (core, care cure) management approach,
anchored to the nursing theory of Lydia Hall. This case study includes the ideal and
actual interventions related to the disease condition. Significant limitations to the study
included the inadequacy of the facilities available at the clinical settingMedical surgical
book volume 2 was able to identify various factors that contributed to the present
condition by understanding the pathophysiology of the disease. From this, appropriate
medical and nursing interventions were derived. This study will benefit the nursing
profession both in the clinical area and the nursing students in Capitol University.
Management of patients with achalasia and similar conditions can still be improved. At
best, these occurrences can be prevented given the proper management.
II. ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
Throughout the rotation, the group had gained knowledge from the experiences
they had on the medical ward. The memories were also worth keeping and sharing. As
a result, our group would like to express its sincere appreciation to the individuals and
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organizations listed below for their contributions to the group's achievement in
conducting the case presentation.
First and foremost, we thank our Almighty God for providing us with insight,
knowledge, guidance, love, and strength, which greatly aided the group in completing
our case presentation. Despite the group's hardships and stumbling blocks. He
continues to give us optimism that we will be able to complete this study successfully.
To Mrs. Jane Wisdom J: Gallana RN, USRN, our clinical instructor, for her
competence, patience, and unwavering support during our tasks, and for serving as role
models for excellent and holistic nursing care. Thank you for sharing your knowledge
and bringing discipline to the academic and clinical settings with your skills. Because of
your leading nature, the group learned a lot during our hospital exposure and was able
to complete the case study. And lastly, to all the staff of the Capitol University Medical
Center - Medical Ward, for being willingly responding to the researcher's questions and
for being accommodating during our duty. We offer this success and completion of our
case study to these people.
III. INTRODUCTION
Case
“A 63-year old patient who was recently diagnosed with achalasia reported nausea and
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vomiting. The 2 years prior patient had onset of epigastric discomfort associated with
substantial pain and regurgitation. 5 day prior still with epigastric discomfort associated
with utilization 6-8 times a day.
According to Lydia Hall‘s Care, Core and Cure Model ―Nursing is participation in care,
core and cure aspects of patient care, where CARE is the sole function of nurses,
whereas the CORE and CURE are shared with other members of the health team. The
major purpose of care is to achieve an interpersonal relationship with the individual that
will facilitate the development of the core” In this same thought, we as health providers
are called to the responsibility of promoting health through providing strategic care to
patients and to actively involve in the development of the nursing profession. It is in the
light of this cause this case study was made.
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Definition
Achalasia is a rare disorder that makes it difficult for food and liquid to pass from the
swallowing tube connecting your mouth and stomach (esophagus) into your stomach.
Achalasia occurs when nerves in the esophagus become damaged. As a result, the
esophagus becomes paralyzed and dilated over time and eventually loses the ability to
squeeze food down into the stomach. Food then collects in the esophagus, sometimes
fermenting and washing back up into the mouth, which can taste bitter. Some people
mistake this for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). However, in achalasia the
food is coming from the esophagus, whereas in GERD the material comes from the
stomach.
Achalasia is a rare disorder that mostly affects adults between the ages of 25 and 60
years. However, this disorder may occur at any age, including during childhood.
Achalasia affects males and females in equal numbers except in cases that appear to
reflect an inherited form. The disease was unique since it is a no cure disease which
means it will be researched for a long time.
Etiology
According to (Ifeanyi I. Momodu1; Jason M. Wallen2.) Achalasia is thought to occur from the
degeneration of the myenteric plexus and vagus nerve fibers of the lower esophageal
sphincter. There is a loss of inhibitory neurons containing vasoactive intestinal peptide
(VIP) and nitric oxide synthase at the esophageal myenteric plexus, but in severe
cases, it also involves cholinergic neurons. The exact etiology of this degeneration is
unclear though many theories have been proposed. These theories include an
autoimmune phenomenon, viral infection, and genetic predisposition. Most cases seen
in the United States are primary idiopathic achalasia; however, secondary achalasia
may be seen in Chagas disease caused by Trypanosoma cruzi, esophageal infiltration
by gastric carcinoma, eosinophilic gastroenteritis, lymphoma, certain viral infections,
and neurodegenerative disorders.
Causes
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The exact cause of achalasia is poorly understood. Researchers suspect it may be
caused by a loss of nerve cells in the esophagus. There are theories about what causes
this, but viral infection or autoimmune responses have been suspected. Very rarely,
achalasia may be caused by an inherited genetic disorder or infection.
Achalasia symptoms generally appear gradually and worsen over time. Signs and
symptoms may include:
● Inability to swallow (dysphagia), which may feel like food or drink is stuck in your
throat
● Regurgitating food or saliva
● Heartburn
● Belching
● Chest pain that comes and goes
● Coughing at night
● Pneumonia (from aspiration of food into the lungs)
● Weight loss
● Vomiting
The main reason for choosing Achalasia as our case topic is because achalasia is a
rare condition that is rarely associated in the Philippines and this topic will definitely
broaden our knowledge and enhance our nursing practice. The group chose this topic
because this can help us as nurses manage the complication and make assessments to
help the client.
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The significance of the case study in relation to the theme
This case study will help us better understand the disease process of the patient.This
also helps us in identifying the primary care need of the patient with achalasia. After
identifying such needs and health problems, we can now formulate a nursing care plan
for the patient that would address these needs and problems effectively. Through the
effective management of the problem present it will help the patient recover faster and
maintain a holistic sense of wellness while in the hospital. This case study would equip
us with knowledge, skills, and attitude on how to manage future patients with the same
or similar problem.
This case study is about achalasia. It includes the concept of relating to the condition
of a patient's history and profile, assessments and clinical manifestations. The anatomy
and physiology with associated factors are also included. The Medical Management
along with the discharge plans and other relevant data are also covered. The scope of
this group would be to have a broad understanding about achalasia and to have an
improved nursing management on caring with patients with this type of rare condition.
During our duty last march 27,2022 and march 28,2022. Nursing Management covers
the above mentioned dates which encompasses the client‘s Recovery Phase.
The areas of concern are limited to the discussions of achalasia and the quality of
Nursing Care to the patient.
Nursing Education
This study can be a useful learning guide in nursing education as this can be
used by the students as a reference for future studies regarding Achalasia. This study
will enable the nursing student to learn how to assess patients with achalasia and be
able to provide appropriate nursing care and management.It gives a great opportunity
for nursing students to learn about the nursing interventions and have an idea of a
rationale behind its actions.This condition is a rare one, so In this way, they are
acquiring more knowledge about the disease that they can use to further develop their
skills as student nurses and future nurses. It may open a new door in the practice of
getting quality care.
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Nursing Practice
This study can give a good introduction to the disorder so that an established
nursing action can be quickly utilized. And through discovering and rediscovering, and
trial after trial of innovative interventions and facilitation of this condition, a more
advanced nursing management may be developed.This study can be used as a tool
and guide for nursing practice.
Nursing Research
This case study can be used as a baseline data for further research. This might
be beneficial as a simple academic informative material, and serve as a guide for
orienting people about the substance of the disease. This study can be used as a
reference for better nursing intervention and management.
General Objectives:
This case presentation seeks to enhance the student‘s knowledge regarding the general
health and condition of a patient suffering from achalasia, its process, possible
complications, treatment plan, and medical-nursing interventions.
Specific Objectives:
Aims to:
1. Accurately present a thorough general assessment of the client which includes
physical assessment and family history taking.
2. Effectively identify signs and symptoms exhibited by a patient that suffers from
achalasia.
3. Thoroughly discuss, explain and elaborate the nature of the condition and its
process.
4. Efficiently provide appropriate and proper nursing diagnosis in line with the
client‘s medical condition and skillfully formulate nursing care plans for the
problems identified.
5. Appropriately apply nursing interventions necessary for the patient‘s condition in
reference with the learned theories and concepts of the achalasia
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VI. PATIENT’S PROFILE
Demographic Data
Patient Paderog is a 63-year-old male who was born on December 23, 1958. The
patient is living with his wife in Villanueva, Misamis Oriental. His parents are both
Filipinos.
Vital Signs
The initial assessment was done last March 27, 2022. The vital signs were as follows:
Blood pressure 100/60 mmHg, Pulse Rate 72 bpm, Respiratory Rate 17 CPM,
Temperature 35.7c, 02 Saturation 93%, Intake 1020ml. Output 500ml
4 PM 100/60 72 17 93 35.7
8 PM 120/70 60 20 93 35.7
Input-Output
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Nursing Health History
The following medical history includes a medical history of the patient's medical
condition. They considered it important to include factors that may contribute to the
patient's current health.
Chief Complaint
Patient Paderog was brought to Capitol University Medical Center (CUMC) last March
23, 2022, with the chief complaint of vomiting.
2 years the prior patient had onset of epigastric discomfort associated with substernal
pain and regulation weight loss, (-) Melena sugar consult and managed of gastritis 5
days prior still with epigastric discomfort is associated with utilizing in 6-8c/day 1 day
prior: noted common stool.
Patient Paderog is not an alcohol drinker and not a cigarette smoker. He is not using
illicit drugs. Patient Paderog loves to drink coffee and can drink 2-4 glasses of coffee
and he doesn’t have any allergies.
Patient Paderog has a poor appetite due to vomiting, he likes to eat anything his wife
can provide at the table.
ELIMINATION PATTERN
Patient Paderog doesn’t have any problems with defecating, patient void 2-3 times a
day.
Activity-Exercise Pattern
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Done during initial assessment March 23, 2022
Sleep-Rest Pattern
Patient Paderog has difficulty sleeping at night due to vital sign monitoring and night
noises; he has no history of sleep disturbances; and he does not take any sleeping
medication because he has never had difficulty sleeping before.
Cognitive-Perceptual Pattern
Patient paderog does not have any hearing or vision problems. He also stated
that his memory had not changed recently and that he had no difficulty learning
simple things. When he feels pain or discomfort, he manages it by resting and
doing some activities.
Patient Paderog stated that he feels worried about himself and condition.He also states
there’s many changes on how he sees himself being hospitalized, and feeling like a
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burden now. He reported being restless from abdominal pain, and having difficulty
swallowing solid and liquid food. And also worrying about the surgery but instead of
complaining he follows the doctors order and looks forward to his recovery.
Value-Belief Pattern
The family is Roman Catholic. They go to church every sunday. The patient stated that
they can rely on God and to have faith in him that he will recover through his condition.
Integumentary System
His skin is pallor and moist to touch. Hair is well distributed, short and clean nails were
also observed.
Head, Eyes, Ears, Nose and Throat (HEENT)
The head is normocephalic and fontanels are closed, his facial movements are
observed. Eyes are aligned and non-edematous. The conjunctiva is pink and there is a
positive blinking reflex and corneal reflex. The pupils have equal sizes. There is also a
positive reaction to light; his visual acuity is grossly normal. His pinna’s of the ears are
normoset and no discharges noted, the snares of the nose are patent and no
deformities noted, tympanic membrane is intact and the gross hearing is normal the
mucosa is pinkish and no discharges. The tongue is midline, the uvula and tonsils are
also midline and the posterior pharynx is not inflamed.
Respiratory system
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Respiration is symmetrical, with full chest expansion and a respiratory rate of 20 cpm,
which is within normal limits.
Cardiovascular System
Heart sounds are regular, with no heart murmurs present, and there is no cyanosis or
chest pain. The radial pulse is 72 beats per minute.
Gastrointestinal System
The abdomen is symmetrical with no presence of scar or lesions. Bowel sounds are
normoactive, abdomen is tympanitic there is muscle guarding and rebound tenderness
noted.
Reproductive System
Patient Paderog has no discharges and was not able to examine the penis. There are
no nodules or growths noted.
Musculoskeletal System
He has complete set fingers and toes no dimpling is observed there are equal gluteal
folds. There are no fractures and no clicks in the joints. Muscles are symmetrical and
equal muscle tone. Arms and legs are symmetrical in size and movement.
Neurological System
Developmental data
Patient Paderog stated pain to his epigastric area. Guarding his abdomen when pain
occurs. Pain scale of 7/10 as patient stated verbally after the surgery.
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VII. ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY
The esophagus carries food from the mouth to the stomach. The lower esophageal
sphincter is a muscular ring at the junction of the esophagus and the stomach, the
function of lower esophageal sphincter is to control flow of luminal contents between the
esophagus and stomach and to serve as a physical barrier against the occurrence of
gastroesophageal reflux (GERD) . The lower esophageal sphincter relaxes when food
from the esophagus enters the stomach.
VII. PATHOPHYSIOLOGY
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Narrative
Achalasia is a rare condition that results from inflammation and degeneration of neurons
in the esophageal wall.There are two types of achalasia, the primary achalasia and the
secondary achalasia other known as pseudoachalasia. When the cause of the
inflammatory degeneration of neurons in primary achalasia is unknown, the recruitment
of neutrophils and eosinophils to nitric oxide producing neurons which result
inappropriate contraction of smooth muscle in distal esophagus that can loss of
peristalsis in distal esophagus.The cholinergic neurons involved in lower esophageal
sphincter tone are relatively spared, which can result in incomplete relaxation of lower
esophageal sphincter.
The causes of secondary achalasia are chagas disease, tumor and diabetes
mellitus. Chagas disease is life - threatening that is caused by a blood-borne parasite
that has a scientific name of trypanosoma cruzi, the parasitic invasion leads to
inflammation of the esophagus. The tumor is an esophageal carcinoma, lung cancer,
cancer of gastric cardia, etc. which result in local invasion of esophageal myenteric
plexus. Diabetes Mellitus is a chronic hyperglycemia that damages autonomic nerves
that can interfere in autonomic neuropathy involving the esophageal myenteric plexus.
All of this can result from dysfunction of the esophageal myenteric plexus.
The primary and secondary achalasia may create a lack of lower esophageal
sphincter relaxation that makes it difficult for food and water to pass. The intake of food
or water may put pressure on the esophagus that can feel a sense of fullness which
can be aspirated into the lungs that may cause complications such as pneumonia,
asphyxiation,pneumonitis and chronic cough. The lab findings may result in “bird’s
beak” sign on barium swallow x-ray, lack of peristalsis,elevated lower esophageal
sphincter pressure,on esophageal manometry, dysphasia(trouble swallowing),both
solids and liquids that may result decreased caloric intake that can cause weight
loss.Other finding of achalasia is regurgitation of undigested food which the stomach
acid irritates the esophagus may result in heartburn( epigastric/ retrosternal burning
sensation).
Diagram
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XI. Diagnostic Test
● X-ray Studies - Shows the esophageal dilation above the narrowing at the
gastroesophageal junction.
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● Esophageal Manometry- A process in which peristalsis, contraction amplitudes,
and esophageal pressures is measured by radiologist or gastroenterologist,
confirms the diagnosis. It measures the motility and internal pressure of the
esophagus and can test for irregular and high-amplitude.
● Barium swallow - is a type of test used to look inside the esophagus or food pipe.
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Barium is as white liquid that is visible on x-rays. Barium passes through the
digestive system and does not cause a person any harm. As it passes through
the body, barium coats the inside of the food pipe, stomach, or bowel causing the
outlines of the organs to appear on X-ray.
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for your doctor to see. An endoscopy is needed to make sure that you do not
have a tumor in your esophagus. This condition is called pseudoachalasia
("false" achalasia). It requires different treatment.
● Ideal
Peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM). In the POEM procedure, the surgeon uses an
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endoscope inserted through your mouth and down your throat to create an incision in
the inside lining of your esophagus. Then, as in a Heller myotomy, the surgeon cuts the
muscle at the lower end of the esophageal sphincter.
POEM may also be combined with or followed by later fundoplication to help prevent
GERD. Some patients who have a POEM and develop GERD after the procedure are
treated with daily oral medication.
Drug study # 1
Brand name:Reglan
Generic name:Metoclopramide
Classification:GI stimulants
Dosage:1 ampule
Route:IV
Frequency:Q8
Mechanism of action:
● Medicine that increases the movement or contractions of the stomach and intestines.
Indication:
Contraindications:
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Adverse effect of the drugs:
● Do not drive or do anything else that could be dangerous until you know how this
medicine affects you.
● · Check with your doctor right away if you
Drug Study #2
Generic name:Esomeprazole
Dosage:40 mg
Route:IV
Frequency:OD
Mechanism of Action:
Indication:
● The reduction of the occurrence of gastric ulcers associated with continuous NSAIDS
therapy in patients at risk for developing gastric ulcers.
Contraindication:
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● CNS: headache, dizziness, drowsiness
● GI: Abdominal pain, Constipation, diarrhea,dry mouth, flatulence, Nausea
Nursing responsibilities/Precautions:
Drug Study # 3
Generic name:Cefuroxime
Classification:Antibiotic
Dosage:750 mg
Route:IV
Frequency:Q8H
Mechanism of action:
Indication:
Contraindications:
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● Hematologic: Decreased hemoglobin and hematocrit, neutropenia, decreased
hemoglobin concentration
Subjective cues: “i have difficulty swallowing solid food and liquid food ” As verbalized by
the patient.
Objective cues:
V/S:
BP: 110/80
Temp: 35.7
Spo2: 96
RR: 16
PR: 80
Weight: 59kg
Planning :
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Nursing intervention:
Rationale: It guarantee that food stays in stomach and decreased the chance of
aspiration following meals
● Educate patient ,family, and all caregivers about the rationale for food consistency and
choices
Evaluation:
Subjective cues: “unsa na nga procedure ug para asa na?” as verbalized by the patient
V/S:
BP: 110/80
HR: 80
RR:16
TEMP.35.7
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Procedure:heller’s myotomy with fundoplication
Nursing diagnosis: Deficient knowledge regarding surgical procedure may be related to lack of
information possibly evidenced by statements of concern,questions, and misconception
Planning:
Nursing intervention:
Rationale: Provide knowledge base from which patient can make informed therapy and
consent for procedure
Evaluation:
● After 8 hrs. Of nursing intervention,the patient is able to fully verbalize the understanding of
disease procedure and postoperative expectation
● After 1 day of nursing intervention ,the patient is fully correctly informed of the necessary
procedure and fully understands the reasons for the action.
Subjective cues: “ Medyo masakit ang aking operasyon” as verbalized by the patient
Objective cues:
BP: 110/80
HR: 80
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RR: 16
TEMP.: 35.7
Restlessness
Planning:
Nursing intervention:
Rationale: To prevent fatigue that can impair ability to manage or cope with
pain
evaluation :
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XII. DISCHARGED PLAN
Long term goal
Goals
PATIENT CARE: Some patients with achalasia benefit from eating slowly, taking small
bites, and avoiding swallowing large volumes of food or liquid. Patient education centers
on adaptations the patient may make to avoid esophageal pain, regurgitation, and
weight loss.
Meds
● Metoclopramide/GI stimulants
● Cefuroxime/Antibiotic
Therapy
Specific treatment depends on your age, health condition and the severity of the
achalasia.
Exercise
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● Hold your breath tightly.
Health teachings
Instruct the patient how to have a healthy lifestyle, right foods to eat and foods to avoid.
Instruct the family members to prepare a low sodium and low fat diet. Instruct the
patient’s family to provide a safe environment Instruct the patient and family members
to take medicine exactly as directed. Don’t skip doses. Instruct patients to begin an
exercise program. Ask the healthcare provider how to get started. Ask how much
activity you should try to get everyday or week. can benefit from simple activities such
as walking or gardening. Instruct the patient to limit how much alcohol he/she drinks.
Outpatient
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rehabilitation and recovery.
● Keep follow-up appointments for any blood tests ordered by the healthcare
provider
Diet
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On the last day of assessment on March 23, 2022, the patient was still admitted at the
hospital, also the patient stated pain after the surgery pain scale of 7/10 . There are no
significant changes in his condition. His vital signs on the last day of assessment were
the following: T-35.7 degrees Celsius; P- 60 bpm; R- 20 cpm; Bp-120/70; O2 sat-93%.
There are no signs of serious complications Certain limitations to the case management
are apparent and inevitable; hence Our group made use of "what was only available”.
Our group was able to compare the actual and ideal nursing and medical interventions.
Based on mystudy, there are various ideal medical management that can be done to
facilitate his complete recovery.
For future case studies, our group recommends a full-blown thorough assessment not
only of the patient but also of his significant others is essential in understanding the
course of the condition.
XIV. APPENDICES
Definition of words
● Achalasia: is a rare disorder that makes it difficult for food and liquid to pass
from the swallowing tube connecting your mouth and stomach (esophagus) into
your stomach.
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● myenteric plexus: a network of nerves between the layers of the muscularis
propria in the gastrointestinal system.
● Normocephalic: Having a normal-sized head
● Gerd: gastroesophageal reflux disease.
Bibliography
BOOK SOURCES:
Saunder Nursing Drug Handbook 2021 By Robert J. Kizior.
Nurse's Pocket Guide Diagnosis, Prioritized Interventions and Rationales: by Marilynn
E.
Doenges, Mary
Frances Moorhouse, Alice C. Murr. Edition 15
33
Medical Surgical Nursing: by Bruner and Suddarth Edition 14
Medical Surgical Nursing 14th edition By Janice L. Hinkle and Kerry H. Cheever
Volume2
Nurse's Pocket Guide 15th edition By Marilyn E. Doenges et al.
webs:
Achalasia - Diagnosis and treatment - Mayo Clinic
O'Neill, O. M., Johnston, B. T., & Coleman, H. G. (2013). Achalasia: a review of clinical
diagnosis, epidemiology, treatment and outcomes. World journal of gastroenterology,
19(35), 5806–5812. https://doi.org/10.3748/wjg.v19.i35.5806
National Organization for Rare Disorders. Achalasia. (https://rarediseases.org/rare-
diseases/achalasia/) Accessed 11/9/2021.
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