Upper Gastrointestinal Bleeding : Diagnostic Studies

Diagnostic Studies

  • Endoscopy
    • Primary tool for diagnosing source of upper GI bleeding
    • Before performing
      • Lavage may be needed for clearer view
        • NG or orogastric tube placed, and room-temperature water or saline used
        • Do not advance tube against resistance
    • Stomach contents aspirated through a large-bore (Ewald) tube to remove clots
  • Angiography
    • Used to diagnose only when endoscopy cannot be done
    • Invasive procedure
      • May not be appropriate for high-risk or unstable patient
    • Catheter placed into left gastric or superior mesenteric artery until site of bleeding is discovered
  • Laboratory studies
    • Complete blood cell count (CBC)
    • Blood urea nitrogen (BUN)
    • Serum electrolytes
    • Prothrombin time, partial thromboplastin time
    • Liver enzyme measurements
  • Laboratory tests
    • ABG measurements
    • Typing/cross matching for possible blood transfusions
    • Test vomitus/ stools for presence of gross and occult blood

Share:

More Posts

How to Grill Safely

What You Need to Know When handling raw meat, chicken and other poultry, and seafood Separate it from other food Refrigerate it before grilling Wash

The Importance of Urgent Care

Urgent care centers are a vital part of the healthcare system. They provide convenient, affordable, and quality care for a wide range of minor illnesses

Common Urgent Care Conditions

These are just a few of the common urgent care conditions. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to see a