STUDENT:Stacey Pusti

PROJECT ADVISOR: Michael M. Evans

ABSTRACT

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is detectable from the symptoms of heartburn and regurgitation. Silent GERD is not as easily detectable with 11.6-45.3% of patients with erosion. Overtime, the continuous erosion of the protective barriers of the esophagus eventually lead to Barrett’s esophagus, and esophageal cancer. Thus, there is need to identify the signs and symptoms of silent GERD early to decrease the mortality rates of esophageal cancer.
Purpose
To analyze the literature for best practices for patients suffering with GERD and silent GERD.
Methods
A literature review was conducted searching for the highest level of evidence surrounding those suffering from GERD or silent GERD. Databases related to the health sciences were searched to locate possible scholarly evidence. This included Penn State University Libraries, PubMed, and ProQuest Nursing and Allied Health Database. The search terms of gastroesophageal reflux disease, silent acid reflux, esophageal cancer mortality, GERD and economical, and hospitalized GERD patients were utilized. Inclusion criteria consisted of peer reviewed journals published between 2010-2020. Exclusion criteria consisted of children with GERD or silent GERD, and adult patients not suffering with GERD or silent GERD.
Results
Upon completion of the literature review, 15 articles were retrieved and reviewed for their relevancy to this project. Of the 15 articles, 11 were retained because of their applicability to the research purpose.
Conclusions
It is imperative for health care workers and patients to be aware of silent GERD and do regular diagnostic testing when the patient is at risk to avoid life threatening repercussions.