A patient is being examined for a suspected peptic ulcer. The nurse knows that what symptom indicates a duodenal ulcer rather than a gastric ulcer?

Explanation

• With duodenal ulcers, pain is relieved during meal time due to the closure of the pyloric sphincter. Pain will manifest about 2-3 hours after a meal when the pylorus opens and releases gastric contents into the small intestine.

• With gastric ulcers, pain is intensified with meals due to the release of gastric acid.

• Hematemesis and nausea can occur with both types of ulcers.

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