GI Bleeding

Question 1

Location of upper vs. lower GI bleed

Answer 1

Upper GI bleed: From a source above the LoT

Lower GI bleed: From a source below the LoT

Question 2

Presentation of Upper GI bleeding

Answer 2

Hematemesis
Blood or coffee grounds detected during nasogastric lavage
Melena
BUN to serum creatinine ratio greater than 30
Hyperactive Bowel Sounds

Question 3

Presentation of Lower GI bleeding

Answer 3

Blood clots in the stool
Red blood that is mixed with solid brown stool
Dripping of blood into the toilet after a bowel movement

Question 4

Diverticulosis

Answer 4

Causes 50% of LGIs
ASA and NSAIDs increase risk of bleeding for diverticulosis
Acute, painless, large volume maroon or bright red hematochezia

Question 5

Assess the degree of bleeding

Answer 5

Severe bleeding:
SBP < 100 mmHg
HR > 100

Moderate bleeding:
SBP > 100 mmHg
HR > 100

Minor bleeding:
Normal HR and BP