NURSE-UN 1225 - Pediatrics Exam 3 Study Guide.

NURSE-UN 1225 - Pediatrics Exam 3 Study Guide/NURSE-UN 1225 - Pediatrics Exam 3 Study Guide. GI SYSTEM Anatomy & Physiology of the GI System in Children • Mouth: highly vascular (­ risk for bleeding injury); entry point of infection (hands & feet always in mouth) • Esophagus: lower esophageal sphincter (LES) is not fully developed until 1 y/o (causing regurgitation/­ risk for aspiration; ¯ caloric intake; irritation along esophageal mucosa) • Stomach: capacity 10-20mL (adults ~1L) (children can handle smaller amount of fluid/food = more frequent feeding) • Intestines: small intestine not mature at birth (250cm vs 600cm) (child is at risk for malnutrition b/c small intestine not fully developed & it accounts for ~90% of adult digestive process) • Biliary System: liver relatively large at birth; pancreatic enzymes develop postnatally until ~2y/o • Fluid Balance & Losses: balance is very important b/c they are at (­ risk for dehydration/overhydration b/c kidneys are immature & unable to filter well) * change can from normal to serious condition occurs quicker in children