Final answer:
A peptic ulcer is a sore in the lining of the stomach or duodenum. It can be treated with antibiotics and medications to decrease stomach acid. Nursing care involves administering medications, managing symptoms, and providing support and education.
Step-by-step explanation:
A peptic ulcer is a sore in the lining of the stomach or duodenum. It can be classified as gastric ulcer if it occurs in the stomach, or duodenal ulcer if it occurs in the duodenum. The most common symptoms of peptic ulcers are upper abdominal pain, belching, vomiting, weight loss, and poor appetite. Peptic ulcers are usually treated with antibiotics to kill H. pylori bacteria, along with medications to decrease stomach acid and promote healing. In severe cases, emergency surgery may be necessary.
Nursing care for patients with peptic ulcer disease includes administering medications as prescribed, monitoring and managing symptoms such as pain and nausea, ensuring proper nutrition and hydration, and providing emotional support and education to the patient and their family about the disease, treatment, and prevention strategies.