Questions: The nurse is explaining to a patient with gastritis about the tasks performed by the stomach. Which physiological function would the nurse include in the teaching? Select all that apply. One, some, or all responses may be correct. Storage of food Reabsorption of nutrients Secretion of intrinsic factor Production of hydrochloric acid Mucus secretion to aid protein digestion

The correct responses are:

1. Storage of food
2. Secretion of intrinsic factor
3. Production of hydrochloric acid

Explanation for each option:

1. Storage of food: The stomach serves as a temporary storage site for food, allowing it to be released gradually into the small intestine for further digestion.

2. Reabsorption of nutrients: This is incorrect. The stomach is primarily involved in the digestion of food, not the reabsorption of nutrients. Nutrient absorption mainly occurs in the small intestine.

3. Secretion of intrinsic factor: The stomach secretes intrinsic factor, which is essential for the absorption of vitamin B12 in the small intestine.

4. Production of hydrochloric acid: The stomach produces hydrochloric acid, which helps break down food, activates digestive enzymes, and provides an acidic environment to kill bacteria.

5. Mucus secretion to aid protein digestion: This is incorrect. While the stomach does secrete mucus, its primary role is to protect the stomach lining from the acidic environment, not directly aid in protein digestion. Protein digestion is primarily facilitated by the enzyme pepsin, which is activated by hydrochloric acid.

In summary, the physiological functions of the stomach include the storage of food, secretion of intrinsic factor, and production of hydrochloric acid.