Question

a client has a gastrointestinal (gi) disorder that affects absorption of nutrients. which layer of the gastrointestinal system would the nurse suspect is malfunctioning in this client?

Answer 1

Malfunction of the mucosal layer's microvilli in the small intestine is suspected in a GI disorder affecting nutrient absorption. For instance, celiac disease damages these microvilli, preventing proper nutrient uptake and causing malnutrition.

Step-by-step explanation:

If a client has a gastrointestinal (GI) disorder that affects the absorption of nutrients, the nurse would suspect malfunctioning of the mucosal layer, specifically the microvilli in the small intestine.

The microvilli are fingerlike extensions of the plasma membranes of cells that specialize in absorption, increasing the surface area for nutrient absorption.

Damage to these structures, such as in cases of celiac disease, compromises their function and prevents nutrients from being adequately absorbed into the bloodstream, leading to malnutrition and other related symptoms.

In relation to this, celiac disease is a condition where gluten intake leads to an immune response damaging the microvilli, consequently impairing absorption and resulting in nutritional deficiencies.