Certified Gastroenterology Registered Nurse Complete Practice Exam

Gastric outlet obstruction primarily affects stomach emptying. This condition occurs when there is a blockage at the exit of the stomach, preventing food and liquids from moving into the small intestine. As a result, the normal process of gastric emptying is disrupted, leading to symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and abdominal distention.

When the outlet of the stomach is obstructed, the contents of the stomach cannot be properly processed and passed further along the digestive tract. This can result in increased pressure within the stomach and may also lead to complications such as dehydration and electrolyte imbalances if prolonged.

While nutrient absorption, gastric acidity, and enzyme secretion may also be impacted indirectly, the primary dysfunction caused by gastric outlet obstruction is the impediment of stomach emptying. Understanding this concept is crucial for managing patients with this condition effectively, as any therapeutic interventions will need to focus on alleviating the obstruction to restore normal gastric function.