Nursing care plan for achalasia

Contents

Introduction

Achalasia is a rare motor disorder of the esophagus or food pipe. It is caused by loss of nerve cells which normally line the lower part of the esophagus and relax the muscles to allow food to pass into the stomach.

Assessment

Esophageal Manometry: This test measures the strength of the esophageal muscle contractions and muscular coordination of esophagus movement. It also evaluates the response of the esophageal sphincter to pressure from the stomach.

Upper GI Series (Barium swallow): This test is used to determine if there are any physical abnormalities in the esophagus. The test involves a series of X-rays, taken after the patient drinks a barium solution.

Endoscopy: An endoscopy is done to examine the inside of the esophagus for ulcers or strictures and to take biopsy samples.

Nursing Diagnosis

Ineffective airway clearance: Ineffective airway clearance occurs when the patient is unable to clear secretions from the airway, usually due to difficulty swallowing.

Impaired swallowing: Impaired swallowing occurs when the patient is unable to swallow due to the esophageal muscle spasm associated with Achalasia.

Outcomes

Improvement in airway clearance: Improved airway clearance means that mucous secretions are cleared more easily from the airways

Improved swallowing function: Improvement in swallowing function means that the patient is able to swallow food more easily and safely.

Interventions

  • Positioning: Positioning the patient in an upright position encourages improvement in swallowing function.
  • Health Education: Educate the patient on methods of maintaining good oral hygiene and avoiding foods that may aggravate esophageal spasms.
  • Nutritional Assessment: Assess nutrition status to ensure all dietary needs are met and encourage use of soft, bland, debarked and easy to digest foods.
  • Medications: Administer medications as prescribed by the physician such as prokinetics, antidepressants, and antispasmodics.
  • Surgery: Surgical intervention may be required in cases where medications have not been effective.

Rationales

  • Positioning: This can help reduce esophageal spasms and breathing difficulties.
  • Health Education: This helps the patient to maintain better dietary and oral hygiene practices.
  • Nutritional Assessment: Ensuring that the patient receives adequate nutrients helps promote improved symptoms and well-being.
  • Medications: Prokinetics help to strengthen esophageal pressure while antidepressants and antispasmodic medications work to relax the esophageal muscles.
  • Surgery: Surgery is indicated in cases where medical interventions have failed.

Evaluation

It is important to assess the patient's general condition, airway function, swallow function, nutrition status and response to treatment on a regular basis. Additionally, it is important to document any adverse reactions to medications or treatments.

Conclusion

Nursing care plans for achalasia should include assessment, nursing diagnosis, outcomes, interventions and rationales, evaluation and follow-up. The most important goal is to improve the patients quality of life and maintain their safety.

FAQs

  • What is Achalasia?
    Achalasia is a rare motor disorder of the esophagus or food pipe. It is caused by loss of nerve cells which normally line the lower part of the esophagus.
  • What tests are used to diagnose Achalasia?
    Tests used to diagnose Achalasia include Esophageal Manometry, Upper GI Series (Barium swallow) and Endoscopy.
  • What is the treatment for Achalasia?
    Treatment for Achalasia includes Positioning, Health Education, Nutritional Assessment, Medications and Surgery.
  • What is the goal of nursing care for achalasia?
    The goal of nursing care for achalasia is to improve the patients quality of life and maintain their safety.
  • How is the progress of treatment evaluated?
    The progress of treatment is evaluated by assessing the patient's general condition, airway function, swallow function, nutrition status and response to treatment.

Isabella White

Hello to all nursing enthusiasts! I'm Isabella White and I'm thrilled to welcome you to this space dedicated to the exciting world of nursing. Let me share a little about myself and what we can expect together on this journey. About Me: Nursing is more than just a profession to me, it's a calling. When I'm not caring for my patients or learning more about health and wellness, you'll find me enjoying the great outdoors, exploring new trails in nature, or savoring a good cup of coffee with close friends. I believe in the balance between caring for others and self-care, and I'm here to share that philosophy with you. My Commitment to You: In this space, I commit to being your reliable guide in the world of nursing. Together, we'll explore health topics, share practical tips, and support each other on our journeys to wellness. But we'll also celebrate life beyond the hospital walls, finding moments of joy in the everyday and seeking adventures that inspire us to live fully. In summary, this is a place where nursing meets life, where we'll find support, inspiration, and hopefully a little fun along the way. Thank you for joining me on this exciting journey. Welcome to a world of care, knowledge, and connection! Sincerely, Isabella White

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