Baby Ellie is diagnosed with gastroesophageal reflux (GER). Which of the following nursing diagnoses would be inappropriate?
A. Risk for aspiration
B. Impaired oral mucous membrane
C. Deficient fluid volume
D. Imbalanced nutrition: Less than body requirements
Correct Answer: B. Impaired oral mucous membrane
GER is the backflow of gastric contents into the esophagus resulting from relaxation or incompetence of the lower esophageal (cardiac) sphincter. No alteration in the oral mucous membranes occurs with this disorder.
Option A: Avoid placing the patient in a supine position, have the patient sit upright after meals. Supine position after meals can increase regurgitation of acid. Elevate HOB while in bed to prevent aspiration by preventing the gastric acid to flow back into the esophagus.
Option C: Instruct the patient to avoid highly seasoned food, acidic juices, alcoholic drinks, bedtime snacks, and foods high in fat. These can reduce the lower esophageal sphincter pressure.
Option D: Encourage small frequent meals of high calories and high protein foods. Small and frequent meals are easier to digest. Obtain a nutritional history. Determining the feeding habits of the client can provide a basis for establishing a nutritional plan.