Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) Practice Exam

The gold standard study for gastroesophageal reflux (GERD) is:

1. Esophageal enzymes studies

2. Esophageal motility studies

3. Serum ALT test

4. AST/ALT ratio

The correct answer is: Esophageal motility studies

The gold standard study for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is esophageal motility studies. This choice is correct because the primary goal of this diagnostic test is to assess the motility and function of the esophagus, which is critical in understanding the mechanisms that contribute to GERD. The study evaluates how well the esophagus is able to contract and move food toward the stomach, as well as the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) function, which plays a crucial role in preventing reflux. Esophageal motility studies can help identify abnormalities such as ineffective swallowing or hypotensive LES, which are often associated with GERD. This information is essential for developing an appropriate treatment plan for managing the condition. In contrast, other options serve different purposes or do not specifically relate to diagnosing GERD. For instance, esophageal enzyme studies and serum ALT tests do not provide direct information about esophageal function specific to reflux disease, while the AST/ALT ratio also does not specifically assess esophageal motility or reflux behavior. Thus, esophageal motility studies accurately reflect the functional aspects of the esophagus relevant to GERD, solidifying their status as the gold standard for assessment in this context.