Long-term Complications of Untreated Celiac Disease

Patient was educated on long-term complications of untreated Celiac disease as follows: Loss of fluid volume in stool resulting in dehydration and poor skin turgor over time, secondary to poor absorption of water due to damage to the villi. Malnutrition with extreme weight loss due to poor absorption of nutrients in the small intestine, due to damage to the villi. Pale skin and mucus membranes, increasing shortness of breath, increased heart rate, and markedly limited [...]

Symptoms of Celiac Disease

Patient was educated on symptoms of Celiac disease as follows: Abdominal fullness and pain, bloating of abdomen with production of gas, all symptoms of indigestion secondary to damaged small intestinal mucosa and compromised digestion of food material. Loss of fluid volume in stool, secondary to poor absorption of water due to damage to the villi. Pale skin and mucus membranes with increasing shortness of breath, secondary to anemia, due to poor absorption of iron in [...]

Nurse Teaching on Celiac Disease

Patient was educated on Celiac disease as follows: Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder involving damage to the mucosa (inner lining) of the small intestine, secondary to consumption of food items containing gluten. Individuals with this disorder are sensitive to gluten, which is a protein found in some grains. When gluten is consumed, the immune system responds to gluten and produces antibodies, which attack and damage the small intestinal mucosa. So, it is also called [...]

Measures to Prevent Aspiration and Improve Swallow Safety-4

Patient was educated on measures to improve safety during swallowing and prevent episodes of aspiration as follows: Avoid foods that are extremely sticky, such as, caramel, sticky rice, gum, and toffee, to prevent the food sticking to the surfaces in the mouth and resulting in aspiration after the meal. Avoid foods that are stringy, such as, noodles to reduce risk of aspiration. Avoid serving foods that are too hot or too cold for individuals with [...]

Measures to Prevent Aspiration and Improve Swallow Safety-3

Patient was educated on measures to improve safety during swallowing and prevent episodes of aspiration as follows: Schedule at least 45 minutes to an hour for a meal, which gives time for thorough chewing and allows safe swallow. In individuals with stroke and hemiplegia, place food into the side of the mouth with stronger muscles, to prevent aspiration of food into airway and facilitate an easy swallow. Always check for any food particles that are [...]