Nursing Interventions: Hiatal Hernia

1. Prepare the patient for diagnostic tests, as needed.
2. Administer prescribed antacids and other medications
3. To reduce intra-abdominal pressure and prevent aspiration, have the patient sleep in a reverse Trendelenburg position with the head of the bed elevated.
4. Assess the patient’s response to treatment.
5. Observe for complications, especially significant bleeding, pulmonary aspiration, or incarceration or streangulation of the herniated stomach portion.
6. After endoscopy, watch for signs of perforation such as falling blood pressure, rapid pulse, shock, and sudden pain caused by endoscope.
7. To enhance compliance, teach the patient about the disorder. Explain significant symptoms, diagnostic tests, and prescribed treatments.
8. Review prescribed medications, explaining their desired actions and possible adverse effects.
9. Teach the patient dietary changes to reduce reflux.
10. Encourage the patient to delay lying down for 2 hours after eating.