GI System Exam 3 Outline

Flashcards for review based on lecture notes about the digestive system, including liver function, GI disorders, and related treatments and assessments.

Digestive function of the liver

Produces bile, which aids in fat digestion and absorption.

Vitamins stored by the liver

A, D, E, K, and B12.

plasma protein that is a volume expander

Albumin

Lab tests for acute hepatitis

ALT, AST, bilirubin, ALP, hepatitis viral panel, and percutaneous liver biopsy

Nursing care after EGD

Monitor for gag reflex return, assess for perforation (pain, fever, bleeding).

Levin tube care

Check placement, patency, elevate HOB, and document output.

Blood in stool

Monitor vital signs, document color/amount, notify provider.

Enteral feedings

Check tube placement, HOB 30-45°, flush before/after meds/feeding.

Pre-op assessment

Baseline vitals, allergies, labs, consent, and NPO status.

Abdominal percussion

Tympany is normal; dullness may indicate mass/fluid.

Barium swallow care

Pre – NPO; Post – increase fluids, monitor for constipation, chalky stools expected.

NGT meds

Check placement, flush before/after each med, one med at a time.

Types of bariatric surgery

Gastric bypass, sleeve gastrectomy, gastric banding.

Complications post-bariatric surgery

Dumping syndrome, anastomotic leak, nutritional deficiencies.

GERD with hernia care

Small meals, avoid lying flat, avoid triggers (spicy, acidic foods).

Complications of GERD

Barrett’s esophagus, strictures, esophagitis.

Chemo post-op care

Neutropenic precautions, manage side effects (nausea, mucositis).

Mallory-Weiss tear care

Monitor for bleeding, IV fluids, NPO, possibly PPI.

Peptic Ulcer Disease meds

PPIs, H2 blockers, antibiotics (if H. pylori), antacids.

Constipation meds

Laxatives (osmotic, stimulant), stool softeners, fiber.

Signs of hypovolemic shock

Low BP, tachycardia, cool/clammy skin, oliguria.

Diarrhea care

Fluid replacement, monitor electrolytes, skin care.

Diverticulitis management

NPO or clear liquids, antibiotics, pain control.

Crohn’s care

Bowel rest, TPN, corticosteroids, monitor nutrition.

Crohn’s & UC treatment

Anti-inflammatory drugs (5-ASA), steroids, immunosuppressants.

Bowel obstruction symptoms

Distention, vomiting, constipation, high-pitched bowel sounds.

Paralytic ileus assessment

Absent bowel sounds, distention, no flatus.

Anal abscess signs

Pain, swelling near anus, fever, redness.

Post-op colon obstruction signs

No bowel movement, distention, vomiting.

Koch ileostomy

Continent ileostomy using internal reservoir and catheterization.

Colonoscopy/stoma care

Monitor for bleeding/perforation; ensure proper appliance fit and skin care.

Cholecystitis symptoms

RUQ pain, fever, nausea, Murphy’s sign.

Hepatitis exposure treatment

Hep A – IG shot; Hep B – vaccine + HBIG.

HIDA scan

Evaluates gallbladder function using nuclear imaging.

Acute viral hepatitis labs

Elevated ALT/AST, bilirubin, viral panel.

IBS diagnostics

Rome IV criteria, rule out other causes (no definitive test).

Cirrhosis diagnostics

Liver enzymes, bilirubin, albumin, ultrasound, biopsy.

Cholecystectomy post-op

Monitor for bile leak, pain control, promote ambulation.

Hepatitis pathophysiology

Inflammation of liver cells, often viral; leads to liver dysfunction.

Chronic pancreatitis care

Enzyme replacements, pain management, avoid alcohol/fats.

Acute pancreatitis signs

LUQ pain radiating to back, N/V, elevated lipase/amylase.

Constipation/diarrhea assessments

History, pattern, diet, hydration, med review.

BMI ranges

Overweight = 25–29.9; Obese = 30+.

GERD foods to avoid

Spicy foods, caffeine, chocolate, alcohol, fatty foods.

Causes of bowel obstruction

Adhesions, tumors, hernias, volvulus, strictures.