Where it is
Left upper quadrant, under the diaphragm, between the esophagus and the duodenum.
What it does
Mixes food with hydrochloric acid and pepsin. Parietal cells also produce intrinsic factor, needed to absorb vitamin B12. The pyloric sphincter releases chyme into the duodenum.
Clinical relevance
- After removal of the stomach (gastrectomy), clients need lifelong B12 injections and can develop dumping syndrome.
- Coffee-ground emesis means blood that has been partly digested by stomach acid.
Nursing focus
- Dumping syndrome prevention: small frequent meals, low in simple sugars, fluids between rather than with meals, lie down after eating.
- Check gastric residual volumes as your facility protocol directs during tube feeding.