Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)

GERD is reflux that has become clinically significant: gastric contents repeatedly move into the oesophagus and cause troublesome symptoms or mucosal injury. The pattern matters more than an isolated episode. Heartburn and acid regurgitation occurring at least twice weekly, without alarm features, can support a clinical diagnosis in an adult or older child. Infants commonly reflux because they take frequent liquid feeds, spend much of the day lying down, and have an immature antireflux barrier. Many otherwise well infants outgrow this physiologic reflux. GERD is considered when reflux interferes with feeding, growth, comfort, sleep, or respiratory status, or when complications such as oesophagitis occur. The nurse’s first task is to decide whether this is an uncomplicated reflux pattern or a potentially dangerous vomiting or swallowing problem. That decision determines whether reassurance and feeding support are appropriate or whether urgent assessment is needed.