What is emesis?

Emesis is defined as vomiting, which is characterized by the forcible emptying of gastric contents through the mouth. Understanding emesis is important in nursing practice because it can be a symptom of various medical conditions, side effects of medications, or postoperative complications. Identifying and managing emesis is crucial for maintaining a patient’s hydration and nutritional status, as well as for ensuring their comfort.

In contrast, rapid heart rate is known as tachycardia, and slow heartbeat is referred to as bradycardia. Increased urine output is termed polyuria. None of these terms relate to the act of vomiting or the mechanism of emesis, which is specifically focused on the expulsion of stomach contents. Hence, the definition of emesis clearly aligns with the correct answer.