NURS 650 5-1 Concept Map Template

Introduction To NURS 650 5-1 Concept Map Template

This Owlisdom assignment of NURS 650 5-1 Concept Map Template involves creating a concept map to demonstrate your understanding of a specific gastrointestinal disorder. The concept map will help you organise and visualise the key aspects of the disorder, including its pathophysiology, causes, risk factors, signs and symptoms, complications, differential diagnoses, diagnostic tests, and treatment options. This  guide will provide you with a structured approach to completing the concept map effectively.

Choosing A Primary Diagnosis

• Select one gastrointestinal disorder from the provided list.
• Write the name of the disorder at the top of your concept map.

Example

Primary Diagnosis: Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)

Describe the pathophysiology of the primary diagnosis in your own words.

Pathophysiology Of Primary Diagnosis

• Explain the mechanisms that lead to the development of the disorder.
• Include how these processes affect the body.

Example

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) occurs when stomach acid frequently flows back into the tube connecting the mouth and stomach (oesophagus). This backwash (acid reflux) can irritate the lining of the esophagus. Many people experience acid reflux from time to time, but GERD is mild acid reflux that occurs at least twice a week, or moderate to severe acid reflux that occurs at least once a week.

Causes

• Identify primary and secondary causes.
• Provide a brief explanation of how these causes contribute to the disorder.

Example

Ineffective closure of the lower oesophagal sphincter (LES) allows the contents of the stomach to flow back up into the oesophagus.

Abnormalities like hiatal hernia contribute to the improper functioning of the LES.

What are the patient’s risk factors for this diagnosis?

Risk Factors

We will discuss risk factors in this section of NURS 650 5-1 Concept Map Template.

• List genetic, ethnic, and physical risk factors.
• Explain the relevance of each factor.

Example

Obesity increases intra-abdominal pressure.

Smoking decreases LES muscle function.

Pregnancy, due to increased abdominal pressure and hormonal changes affecting LES function.

A diet high in fats, chocolates, caffeine, and spicy foods can relax the LES.

What are the patient’s signs and symptoms for this diagnosis?

Signs And Symptoms

• List the symptoms typically associated with the disorder.
• Ensure that both common and severe symptoms are included.

Example

Heartburn (a burning sensation in the chest)

Regurgitation of food or sour liquid

Difficulty swallowing

Chest pain

The sensation of a lump in the throat

Chronic cough

How does the diagnosis impact other body systems, and what are the possible complications?

Impact On Body Systems And Complications

• Describe the impact on respiratory, digestive, and other systems.
• List possible complications arising from the disorder.

Example

Respiratory: Aspiration of acid into the airways can lead to conditions like asthma, chronic cough, or laryngitis.

Digestive: Ongoing inflammation of the oesophagus can lead to complications such as oesophagal strictures, esophagitis, and potentially Barrett’s oesophagus, which can increase the risk of oesophagal cancer.

Dental: Acid reflux can erode tooth enamel, leading to a range of dental problems.

What is another potential diagnosis that presents in a similar way to this diagnosis (differentials)?

Differential Diagnoses

• List conditions that may present similarly.
• Explain why these conditions are considered differentials.

Example

Peptic Ulcer Disease: This can also cause burning stomach pain.

Gallbladder disease: Symptoms of heartburn and chest pain.

Esophageal cancer: Similar symptoms such as difficulty swallowing and chest pain.

What diagnostic tests or labs would you order to rule out the differentials for this patient or confirm the primary diagnosis?

Diagnostic Tests And Labs

• List the tests and labs needed.
• Provide a brief rationale for each test.

Example

Upper endoscopy to examine the oesophagus and stomach.

Oesophageal manometry to measure the function of the LES and the muscles of the oesophagus.

24-hour pH monitoring to measure acid levels in the oesophagus.

Barium swallow radiograph to check for ulcers or a hiatal hernia.

What treatment options would you consider? Include possible referrals and medications.

Treatment Options

• Describe lifestyle changes, medications, and surgical options.
• Include possible referrals to specialists.

Example

Lifestyle and dietary changes: Avoid foods that trigger reflux, eat smaller meals, do not lie down after a meal, lose weight if overweight, and stop smoking.

Medications: Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) to reduce stomach acid, H2 receptor blockers, and antacids for quick relief.

Surgical options: Nissen fundoplication for patients who do not respond to medication or have complications such as severe reflux or hiatal hernia.

Referrals: Gastroenterologist for ongoing management, possibly a nutritionist for dietary guidance.

Closing

By following these guidelines of NURS 650 5-1 Concept Map Template, students can effectively complete the concept map assignment, demonstrating a thorough understanding of gastrointestinal disorders. This  exercise not only aids in organising critical information but also enhances the ability to visualise complex medical conditions and their management comprehensively. In the next module of NURS 650, we will explore the 7-1 Concept Map Template.