A patient is being evaluated for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Which diagnostic tests should the nurse expect to be prescribed for this patient?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The most common diagnostic tests for GERD are barium swallow and upper endoscopy. Barium swallow is a radiographic test where the patient drinks a barium solution, which then coats the esophagus and stomach. X-rays are taken to see if there is reflux of barium into the esophagus. Upper endoscopy is an invasive test where a flexible tube with a camera is inserted through the mouth to visualize the esophagus and stomach lining. CT scan and complete blood count are not usually used in the diagnosis of GERD, and colonoscopy is used to evaluate the colon and rectum, not the esophagus and stomach.

A Patient Is Being Evaluated for Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)