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Regurgitation

Backward flow of content against normal direction

Definition

Regurgitation refers to backward flow of material against the normal direction, usually of stomach contents (GERD) or blood flow (heart valves).

GI Regurgitation

GERD: passage of stomach contents into the esophagus. Symptoms: heartburn, sour taste, cough, hoarseness. Treatment: lifestyle modifications, PPIs, H2 blockers.

Cardiac Valve Regurgitation

  • Mitral regurgitation: Blood flows back from LV to LA during systole.
  • Aortic regurgitation: Blood flows back from aorta to LV during diastole.
  • Tricuspid regurgitation: Blood flows back from RV to RA during systole.

Nursing Considerations

GERD: HOB elevation, avoid late meals, lose weight, avoid triggers (coffee, chocolate, fatty foods), medication compliance. Valve disease: echocardiogram, symptom monitoring (dyspnea, fatigue), endocarditis prophylaxis, possible valve repair/replacement.

NCLEX Relevance

GERD: HOB elevation, trigger avoidance.