GI Flashcards
What is the sequence of examination for the abdomen?
Inspection, Ausculation, Percussion, Palpation.
What are 5 descriptions for the contour of the abdomen?
Flat, rounded, scaphoid, protuberant, distended.
Normoactive bowel sounds are how many/minute?
5-30
When would you check for shifting dullness?
If dullness was present in the flanks.
This evaluates the general condition, nature of distention, and gross abnormalities and tenderness.
Light palpation.
This detects any organ enlargement, abd masses, or swelling.
Deep palpation.
Why would you check cardiac or lung exams in a pt with GI complaints?
Could suggest pneumonia or cardiac ischemia.
T/F Rectal and pelvic exams are recommended for pts with upper GI complaints.
False. For patients with lower abd and pelvic pain.
Which is LESS likely to require surgery? Acute abdomen with pain lasting more than 48 hours or less than 48 hours?
Pain lasting more than 48 hours is less likely to require surgery than pain of shorter duration.
When can pain-free acute abdomen occur?
Elderly, young children, and last trimester of pregnancy.
When is careful fluid management extremely important?
Ruptured AAA or aortic dissection.
Does a pregnancy test r/o ectopic pregnancy for acute abdomen?
Yes
When do you consider mesenteric ischemia in acute abdomen?
If pt. c/o pain out of proportion to signs on physical exam, consider mesenteric ischemia, particularly in elderly. Hx will include smoking, peripheral vascular disease and/or atrial fib.
Are duodenal ulcers more common in men or women?
Men
This condition can have referred pain to shoulders secondary to diaphragmatic irritation.
Duodenal ulcer
