Gastritis

Definition

Gastritis is inflammation of the gastric mucosa, which may be acute or chronic. It can cause epigastric pain, nausea, vomiting, and, if severe, upper GI bleeding.

Causes

• H. pylori infection (most common)
• NSAIDs, aspirin
• Alcohol
• Severe stress (Curling's/Cushing's ulcers)
• Autoimmune (type A gastritis, linked to pernicious anemia)
• Bile reflux

Signs and Symptoms

Epigastric pain, dyspepsia, nausea/vomiting, anorexia, hematemesis, melena (if bleeding), anemia (chronic).

Nursing Interventions

Administer PPIs (omeprazole) or H2 blockers (famotidine), treat H. pylori with triple therapy (PPI + clarithromycin + amoxicillin or metronidazole × 10 to 14 days). Teach avoidance of NSAIDs, aspirin, alcohol, spicy/acidic foods. Smaller frequent meals. Monitor for signs of bleeding.

NCLEX Relevance

H. pylori triple therapy; avoid NSAIDs and alcohol.