Vocabulary Flashcards
Abetalipoproteinemia
A hereditary syndrome characterized by a lack of beta-lipoproteins in the blood, acanthocytosis, hypocholesterolemia progressive ataxic neuropathy, atypical retinitis pigmentosa and malabsorption
Achalasia
A combined defect of absent peristalsis of the esophageal body and elevated lower esophageal sphincter pressure
Achlorhydria
Absence of free hydrochloric acid in the stomach. May be caused by gastric cancer, ulcer, pernicious anemia, adrenal insufficiency or chronic gastritis
Acinus (hepatic)
A small saclike dilatation, especially a functional unit of the liver, which is supplied by terminal branches of the portal vein and the hepatic artery, and drained by a terminal branch of the bile duct
Activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT)
A measure of the rapidity of blood clotting, which examines factors I, II, V, VIII, IX, X, XI, and XII
Actual health problem
A health condition that is identified as presently causing some difficulty with the patient
Adenomatous polyp
Benign Neoplastic tissue originating in the glandular epithelium
Advocacy
The act of speaking or writing in support of another or in protection of another’s rights
Alagille’s Syndrome
A rare congenital syndrome in which arteriohepatic dysplasia is associated with developmental anomalies of the face, heart, kidneys, muscle and nervous system
Alpha-1-Antitrypsin deficiency
Lack of plasma protein that is produced in the liver
Ambulatory pH monitoring
A 24-hour test that records fluctuations in esophageal pH and correlates them with symptoms of esophageal reflux
Amebiasis
The state of being infected with Entamoeba histolytica
American Board of Certification for Gastroenterology Nurses (ABGN)
A volunteer non profit organization whose purpose it to maintain and improve the knowledge, understanding an skill of nurses in the fields of gastroenterology and endoscopy by developing and administering a certification program
American dilator
One of the series of radiopaque, tapered, polyvinyl dilators that are passed over a guidewire for the purpose of widening a gastrointestinal lumen
American Nurse Association (ANA)
A professional society for nursing in the United States
Amino Acid
A class of organic compounds containing an amino group and carboxyl group. Amino acids form the chief structural components of proteins, and several are essential in human nutrition
Ampulla of Vater
The dilatation formed by the junction of the common bile duct and the pancreatic duct proximal to their opening into the duodenum
Anabolism
Any constructive process by which simple substances are converted by living cells into more complex compounds, especially into living matter
Anaphylaxis
An unusual or exaggerated allergic reaction to a foreign protein or other substance
Anemia
A reduction below normal in the number of erythrocytes
Anesthetic
A drug or agent used to abolish the sensation of pain, particularly before surgery or other painful procedures
Angiography
The roentgenographic visualization of blood vessels following introduction of contrast material
Annular Pancreas
A developmental anomaly in which the pancreas forms a ring entirely surrounding the duodenum
Anorexia
Lack or loss of appetite for food
Anoscopy
Examination of the anus and lower rectum using a specialty designed speculum
Antacid
A substance that counteracts or neutralizes acidity, usually gastric acidity
Antibiotic
An agent that inhibits the growth of or kills microorganisms, used in the treatment of infectious diseases
Anticholinergic
An agent that blocks the parasympathetic nerves
Antidiarrheal
An agent that combats abnormally frequent and liquid fecal discharges
Antiemetic
An agent that prevents or alleviates nausea and vomiting
Antiflatulent
An agent that disperses or prevents the formation of air or gas pockets in the gastrointestinal tract
Antifungal
An agent that is destructive to fungi, suppresses their growth or reproduction, or is effective against fungal infections
Antrum
The constricted, elongated, lower portion of the stomach
Anus
The terminal orifice of the gastrointestinal tract
Argon
An inert gas that is used in lasers
Arteriography
Roentgenography of an artery after the injection of a contrast medium
Ascending colon
The portion of the large intestine between the cecum and the hepatic flexure
Ascites
The effusion and accumulation of serous fluid in the abdominal cavity
Aspiration
- The act of inhaling, including the accidental inhalation of solids or liquids
- The removal of fluids or gases from a cavity by the application of suction
Aspiration biopsy
A biopsy in which the tissue is obtained by the application of suction through a needle attached to a syringe
Assessment
Continuous, systematic collection, validation and communication of patient data for the purpose of planning, implementing, and evaluating nursing care directed toward the attainment of specific patient outcomes
Atresia
Congenital absence or closure of a normal body orifice or tubular organ
Audit
A review of documentation for the purpose of determining whether or not specific objectives were met (e.g., patient goals were achieved, nursing standards of care were met, or structural or environmental criteria were attained) during the period of time outlined in a goal or standard
Auerbach’s plexus
The part of the enteric plexus that is within the muscularis. Also called the myenteric plexus
Authority
The legal or rightful power to command or act
Balloon tamponade
Esophageal-gastric tamponade, involving exertion of pressure against bleeding esophageal varices by inflation of esophageal and usually gastric balloons
Barbed stent
A stent with projections or “barbs” at each end that result from a diagonal cut in the stent wall and serve to hold the stent in place
Barium enema
A suspension of barium that is injected into the rectum and retained in the intestines during roentgenological examination
Also called a contrast enema
Barium sulfate
A bulky, fine, white powder without odor or taste, and free from grittiness, that is used as a contrast medium in roentgenography of the digestive tract
Barium swallow
Ingestion of a thick barium solution for the purpose of radiographic examination of the esophagus
Barrett’s esophagus
Replacement of the normal squamous epithelium of the esophagus by columnar epithelium
Bird’s beak
Tapering of the esophagus at the gastric cardia seen on a barium Esophagram, characteristic of achalasia
Bernstein test
Attempted simulation of noncardiac chest pain by instillation of hydrochloric acid through one of the ports of a manometry catheter or a nasogastric tube that is positioned in the esophagus
Bezoar
A concretion of foreign material that builds up in the stomach
Bile
An alkaline golden brown to greenish-yellow fluid that is secreted by the liver and poured into the small intestine via the bile ducts. Important constituents include conjugated bile salts, cholesterol, phospholipid, bilirubin, diglucuronide and electrolytes
Biliary colic
Paroxysms of pain and other severe symptoms resulting from the passage of gallstones along the bile duct
Biliary stent
A stent inserted into the common bile duct or pancreatic duct
Billroth I procedure
Surgical procedure sacrificing the distal portion of the stomach, pylorus and duodenal bulb. The duodenum is then reattached by anastomosis with the gastric remnant
Bilroth II procedure
Surgical procedure sacrificing the distal portion of the stomach and a portion of the proximal duodenum. The proximal duodenum is closed and a segment of proximal jejunum is attached to the gastric remnant with end-to-end or side-to-end anastomosis
Biopsy
The removal and examination, usually microscopic, of tissue from the living body, performed to establish a precise diagnosis
Biopsy forceps
An instrument that can be passed through the biopsy channel of an endoscope for the purpose of excising pieces if living tissue from a suspected pathological site
Bipolar electrocoagulation
An electrocoagulation method in which the electrical current flows between two small electrodes on the tip of the probe, both of which are in contact with the target tissue
Bipolar probe
A specialized bipolar hemostatic probe that is inserted through the instrument channel of an endoscope
Body
The largest and most important part of the stomach, lying between the fundus and the antrum
Boerhaave’s syndrome
Catastrophic event in which the lower thoracic esophagus is completely torn away from the gastric cardia
Borborygmi
Rumbling noises caused by the propulsion of gas through the intestines
Bougie
A slender, flexible, cylindrical instrument for introduction into a tubular organ, usually for the purpose of dilating a constricted area
Bougienage
The passage of a slender, flexible cylindrical instrument into a tubular organ to dilate a stricture
Brunner’s gland
A tubule-alveolar gland in the submucosa of the duodenum, which opens into the crypt of Lieberkuhn
Candidiasis
Infection with a fungus of the genus Candida
Cannula
A tube for insertion into a duct or cavity, sometimes passed over a guidewire
Capital budget
Planning document used to anticipate costs for durable equipment with purchase price (usually) greater than $500 and expected life of greater than 5 years
Carbohydrate
An aldehyde or ketone derivative of a polyhydric alcohol; the hydrogen and oxygen are usually in the proportion to form water. The most important carbohydrates are the startches, sugars, celluloses and gums
Cardia
The portion of the stomach surrounding the esophagogastric junction, which contains cardiac glands but lacks parietal and chief cells
Cardiac arrest
Sudden cessation of cardiac function, with disappearance of arterial blood pressure, connoting either ventricular fibrillation or ventricular standstill
Cardiac gland
A gland located distal to the esophagogastric junction that secretes mucous and pepsinogens
Cardiac sphincter
Lower esophageal sphincter
Care conference
A collaborative meeting of nurses and possibly other health and allied health professionals for the purposes of planning and evaluating nursing management of a patient’s health problem or set of problems. It represents a brainstorming effect to generate creative, comprehensive, or more aggressive approaches to care, usually for long-term patients with complicated problems whose previous management has failed to bring about desired outcomes
Catabolism
Any destructive process by which complex substances are converted by living cells into more simple compounds
Cathartic
An agent that causes evacuation of the bowels by increasing bulk (bulk cathartic),
stimulating peristaltic action (stimulant cathartic),
softening the feces and reducing friction between them and the intestinal wall (lubricant cathartic),
or increasing fluidity of the intestinal contents by retention of water by osmotic forces and indirectly increasing motor activity (saline cathartic)
Catheter
A tubular, flexible surgical instrument for withdrawing fluids from, or introducing fluids into, a cavity of the body
Cecum
The first part of the large intestine, forming a dilated pouch into which open the ileum, the colon and the vermiform appendix
Celiac sprue
A malabsorption syndrome affecting both children and adults, precipitated by the ingestion of gluten-containing foods
Pathologically, the proximal intestinal mucosa loses it villous structure, surface epithelial cells exhibit degenerative changes, and their absorptive function is severely impaired
Cell
Any one of the minute protoplasmic masses that make up organized tissue, consisting of a nucleus surround by cytoplasm that contains the various organelles and is enclosed in the cell or plasma membrane. A cell is the fundamental structural and functional unit of living organisms
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
The federal public health agency within the Department of Health and Human Services that investigates specific disease outbreaks and formulates general guidelines for disease control
Central tendency
The grouping or score that occurs with the greatest frequency, used in describing a mass of data
Certification
The process by which a nongovernmental agency or association grants recognition to an individual who has met certain qualifications that have been predetermined by that agency or association
Chief cell
A cell located in the parietal glands of the stomach; chief cells secrete pepsinogens
Cholangiogram
A roentgenogram of the gallbladder and bile ducts, following intravenous injection of contrast medium
Cholangitis
An inflammation of a bile duct
Cholecystitis
Inflammation of the gallbladder
Cholecystokinin
A polypeptide hormone secreted by the mucosa of the upper small bowel, which stimulates contraction of the gallbladder (with release of bile) and secretion of pancreatic enzymes
Choledocholithiasis
The presence of gallstones in the common bile duct
Cholelithiasis
The presence or formation of gallstones
Cholestasis
Stoppage or suppression of the flow of bile, having either intrahepatic or extrahepatic causes
Cholinergic
Stimulated, activated or transmitted by choline (acetylcholine); a term applied to nerve fibers that liberate acetylcholine at a synapse when a nerve impulse passes; an agent that produces such effects
Chyme
A relatively homogeneous semiliquid combination of food and digestive juices found in the stomach and small bowel
Cirrhosis
A liver disease characterized pathologically by loss of the normal microscopic lobular architecture, which fibrosis and modular regeneration
Coagulating current
An electric current that is applied for the purpose of coagulating tissue
Coagulation
The process of clot formation; in surgery, the disruption of tissue by physical means to form an amorphous residuum, as in electrocoagulation and photocoagulation
Colitis
Inflammation of the colon
Collaborative diagnosis
Statements of actual or potential health problems that occur from complications of disease, diagnostic studies, or therapeutic procedures, for which the nurse identifies a need to work with other members of the health care team toward resolution
Colloid
A state of matter made up of very small, insoluble, nondiffusible particles that remain in suspension in a dispersion medium
The particles in a colloid are larger than ordinary crystalloid molecules, but they are not large enough to settle out under the influence of gravity
Colon
The part of the large intestine that extends from the cecum to the rectum
Colonoscopy
Endoscopic examination of the colon
Common Bile Duct
The duct formed by the union of the cystic duct and the hepatic duct
Comparison group
A group of subjects whose scores on a dependent variable are used as the basis for evaluating the scores on an experimental group or the group of primary interest. “Comparison group” is used rather than “control group” when the investigation does not use a true experimental design
Computed tomography
Also base on the variable absorption of x-rays by different tissues, computed tomography (CT) imaging, also known as a “CAT” scanning (Computerized Axial Tomography), provides a different form of imaging known as a cross-sectional imaging. A CT imaging system produces cross-sectional images or “slices” of anatomy. Also called CT scan
Concurrent audit
An evaluation of nursing care and patient outcomes preformed while the patient is receiving care. It is performed by using direct observation of nursing care, patient interview and/or chart review
Constipation
Infrequent or difficult evacuation of feces; passage of unduly hard or dry fecal material
Consultation
A meeting of two or more professionals to exchange ideas concerning patient care or to seek advice, instruction or information
Contrast roentgenography
Roentgenography performed after the administration of a contrast medium, often barium sulfate, which facilitates interpretation of the film by accentuating differences in the densities of different regions and structures
Control group
The subjects not receiving an experimental treatment or intervention, whose performance provides a baseline agains which the effects of the treatment can be measured
Corticosteroid
Any of the steroids elaborated by the adrenal cortex (excluding sex hormones of adrenal origin) in response to the release of corticotropin by the pituitary gland, or any of the synthetic equivalents of these steroids
Counseling
The act of rendering short-term, long-term, or motivational guidance to a patient/significant other, an act that may involve the patient in problem solving
Criterion
A measurable quality, attribute, behavior or characteristic that specifies a skill, knowledge or health state that is met at the point a health goal is achieved. Plural: criteria
Critical item
An instrument or object that is introduced directly into the bloodstream or into other normally sterile areas of the body
Crohn’s colitis
Crohn’s disease, confined to the colon
Crohn’s disease
A chronic granulomatous inflammatory disease involving any part of the GI tract, but commonly involving the terminal ileum, with scarring and thickening of the bowel wall. It frequently leads to intestinal obstruction and fistula and abscess formation and has a high rate of recurrence after treatment. Also known as regional enteritis
Cryoprecipitate
Any one of a group of serum proteins, including factor VII, XIII, and fibrinogen, that settle out of solution at temperature below 20 degrees Celsius
Crypt of Lieberkuhn
A simple tubular gland in the mucous membrane of the intestine, opening between the bases of the villi and containing argentaffin cells
Crystalloid
A substance that, in solution, passes readily through animal membranes, lowers the freezing point of the solvent containing it and is generally capable of being crystallized
Culture
The propagation of microorganism or of living tissue cells in special media conductive to their growth
Curling’s ulcer
A stress ulcer that appears in patients with serious burn injuries
Cushing’s ulcer
A stress ulcer that appears in patients with intracranial trauma
Cutting current
An electrical current applied for the purpose of dissection or fulguration
Cystic duct
The passage connecting the neck of the gallbladder and the common bile duct
Cystic fibrosis
A hereditary disorder of infants, children and young adults, in which there is widespread dysfunction of the exocrine glands. It is characterized by signs of chronic pulmonary disease caused by excess mucus production in the respiratory tract, pancreatic deficiency, abnormally high levels of electrolytes in the sweat and occasionally by biliary cirrhosis
Cytology
The study of cells, their origins, structure, function and pathology
Cytology brush
A sheathed, disposable brush that can be passed through the biopsy channel of an endoscope for the purpose of obtaining specimens for microscopic examination
Data
The material or collection of facts upon which a discussion or an inference is based
Database
A foundation of subjective and objective information that enables the design and implementation of a comprehensive and effective plan of care
Decompression
The removal of pressure, as in the removal of excess gas from the intestinal tract
Decontamination
The removal of gross soils and the reduction of the number of microorganisms to the point where an item may be considered safe for handling
Dependent intervention
Nursing action performed under the supervision or direction of a physician
Dependent variable
A concept capable of taking on different values whose value is affected by, or determined by, other variables
Descending colon
The portion of the colon between the splenic flexure and the sigmoid colon at the pelvic brim
Desiccation
The act of drying up, especially the treatment of a tumor or other disease by drying up the part by the application of laser or electrical energy
Dextrose
D-glucose monohydrate. A monosaccharide that occurs as colorless crystals or as a white, crystalline or granular powder, used chiefly as a fluid and nutrient replenisher, usually administered by IV infusion. Also used as a diuretic and alone or in combination with other agents for other clinical purposes
Diaphragmatic hiatus
An opening in the diaphragm where the esophagus enters the abdominal cavity
Diarrhea
Abnormally frequent and liquid fecal discharges
Diffuse esophageal spasm
Repetitive, prolonged simultaneous contractions along the length of the esophagus, with intermittent normal peristalsis
Dilator
An instrument that is used to enlarge an orifice or canal by stretching
Disaccharide
Any of a class of sugars that yield two monosaccharides on hydrolysis and have the general formula Cn(H2O)n_1
Disinfection
A physical or chemical process that kills or destroys mouth pathogenic microorganisms, but rarely kills all spores
Dispersive electrode
Grounding pad
Diverticulitis
Inflammation of a diverticulum, especially inflammation related to colonic diverticula, which may undergo perforation with abscess formation
Diverticulosis
The presence of diverticula, particularly colonic diverticula, in the absence of inflammation
Diverticulum
An outpouching of one or more layers of the wall of a tubular organ
Documentation
The act of collecting, abstracting and coding of patient data and therapeutic processes for the purposes of communicating patient care, supplying a supporting reference concerning the status or progress of a patient and archiving evidence of care rendered
Double-blind
An experiment in which neither subjects nor investigators are aware of which subjects are in the experimental group and which subjects are in the control group
Double-contrast roentgenography
Mucosal relief roentgenography; involves injection and evacuation of a barium enema, followed by inflation of the intestine with air under light pressure. The light coating of barium on the walls of the inflated intestine in the roentgenogram clearly reveals even small abnormalities
Dry swallow
Performing the action of swallowing during esophageal manometry without ingesting liquid
Duct
A passage with well-defined walls, especially a tube for the passage of excretions or secretions
Duct of Santorini
The minor pancreatic duct, draining a part of the head of the pancreas into the minor duodenal papilla
Duct of Wirsung
Pancreatic duct, the main excretory duct of the pancreas, which usually unites with the common bile duct before entering the duodenum at the major duodenal papilla (papilla of Vater)
Dumping syndrome
A group of disabling symptoms associated with rapid gastric emptying that mimic the symptoms of hypoglycemia
Duodenum
The first, or proximal, portion of the small bowel, extending from the pylorus to the jejunum
Dyspepsia
Impairment of the power or function of digestion, usually applied to epigastric discomfort following meals
Dysphagia
A sensation of difficulty in swallowing
Edrophonium chloride
A cholinesterase inhibitor that is administered by IV bolus in a provocative test designed to reproduce noncardiac chest pain caused by esophageal dysmotility
Electrocautery
An instrument used to destroy tissue, using an electrical current
Electrocoagulation
Coagulation of tissue, using either a monopolar or bipolar electrical current
Electrolyte
A substance that dissociates into ions when fused or in solution and thus becomes capable of conducting electricity
Electrosurgical unit (ESU)
An apparatus for cutting or coagulating tissue, using a high-frequency electrical current
Endogenous
Produced or arising from within a cell or organism
Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP)
An endoscopic technique for radiological visualization of the biliary and/or pancreatic ducts
Endoscopic variceal ligation (EVL)
The endoscopic introduction of rubber bands or O-rings for the treatment of bleeding varices
Endoscopy
Visual inspection of any cavity of the body by means of an endoscope
Enema
A liquid injected into the rectum
Enteral nutrition
Administration of a prescribed diet by means of a flexible tube inserted into the stomach or small bowel transnasally, surgically, or endoscopically
Enteric plexus
A plexus of autonomic nerve fibers within the wall of the digestive tube, and made up of the submucosal, myenteric and subserosal plexuses
Enteritis
Inflammation of the intestine, especially of the small bowel
Enterochromaffin cell
A basal granular cell whose granules stain readily with silver and chromium salts and which is a site of synthesis and storage of serotonin; includes argentaffin cells and agyrophilic cells
Enteroclysis
The injection of a nutrient or a medicinal liquid into the bowel
Enterocolitis
Inflammation involving both the small bowel and colon
Erythrocyte
A red blood cell; one of the elements found in peripheral blood; normally in human, the mature form is a nonnucleated, yellowish, biconcave disk, adapted, by virtue of its configuration and its hemoglobin content, to transport oxygen
Esophageal atresia
Birth defect characterized by a markedly dilated blind upper esophageal pouch, a variable esophageal defect, and a lower pouch terminating as a fistula communicating with the posterior trachea
Esophageal reflux
Reflux of gastric or duodenal contents back into the esophagus
Esophageal rings and webs
Thin circumferential mucosal shelves, appearing in the esophagus
Esophagitis
An inflammation of the esophageal mucosa
Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD)
Endoscopic examination of the esophagus, stomach and duodenum
Esophagus
The musculomembranous tubular portion of the GI tract that extends from the pharynx to the stomach
Ethylene oxide
A colorless, flammable gas used to sterilize instruments
Evaluative statement
A statement defining an actual outcome; for example, skills developed, knowledge obtained or change in health status
Exfoliative cytology
Microscopic examination of cells desquamated from the body surface or a lesion as a means of detecting malignancy and microbiological changes, to measure hormonal levels, etc. Cells may be obtained by such procedures as aspiration, washing, smears, and scraping, and the technique may be applied to vaginal secretions, sputum, urine, abdominal fluid, prostatic secretions, etc.
Exogenous
Originating outside an organ or part
Experimental group
The subjects receiving an experimental treatment or intervention
Familial polyposis
Multiple Adenomatous polyps with high malignant potential lining the mucous membrane of the intestine, particularly the colon, beginning about puberty
Fatty acid
Any monobasic aliphatic acid containing only carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen and made up of an alkyl radical attached to the carboxyl group. Saturated fatty acids have the general formula of CnH2nO2. There are also several series of unsaturated fatty acids having one or more double bonds, and a few cyclic acids
Fiber optics
The transmission of an image along the flexible bundles of coated parallel fibers that propagate light by internal reflections
Fine-needle aspiration
Sampling of pancreatic tissue for the purpose of cytological examination. Used in the diagnosis of pancreatic cancer
Fistula
An abnormal passage between two internal organs
Fluoroscopy
Examination of deep structures by means of roentgen rays; uses a screen covered with crystals of calcium tungstate, on which are projected the shadows of x-ray beams passing through the body from the source of irradiation
Food and Drug Administration (FDA)
The federal regulatory agency responsible for controlling the safety and effectiveness of drugs, devices, and instrumentation and approving products for disinfectant registration by review of labeling and supporting data submitted by the registrants
French unit
A unit for denoting the size of catheters or other tubular instruments, each unit being roughly equivalent to 0.3mm in diameter (18 French = a diameter of 6mm)
Frozen section
A tissue biopsy obtained during endoscopy that is sent for immediate microscopic examination by a pathologist to determine the type of abnormal tissue present
Fulguration
Destruction of living tissue by electric sparks generated by a high-frequency current
Fulminant hepatic failure
Massive liver cell death that occurs within 2 months of the development of acute hepatitis
Functional organization
A form of organizational structure that is designed to allow specialist in given areas to give and enforce recommendations within a clearly defined scope
Fundus
The proximal portion of the stomach, which lies above and to the left of the lower esophageal sphincter
G cell
A cell type located in the pyloric glands of the stomach: G cells secrete gastrin
Gallbladder
The pear-shaped reservoir for bile on the posteroinferior surface of the liver, between the right and the quadrate lobe; from its neck, the cystic duct projects to join the common bile duct
Gardner syndrome
Familial polyposis of the colon (with malignant potential), supernumerary teeth, fibrous dysplasia of the skull, osteomas, fibromas and epithelial cysts
Gastric baseline
Manometric tracing showing a relatively flat, smooth tracing with a small pressure increase on inspiration or abdominal pressure. Indicates all catheter recording ports are in the patients stomach
Gastric ulcer
Ulcer of the gastric mucosa
Gastritis
An inflammation of the gastric mucosa
Gastroenterology associate
A non-RN health care professional with varied educational background who is engaged in the field of gastroenterology
Gastroenterology nurse
A registered nurse who specializes in the field of gastroenterology
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
Backward flow of gastric contents into the esophagus when the pressure in the stomach is greater than in the esophagus. Associated with pregnancy, obesity, or incompetence of the lower esophageal sphincter
Gastroesophageal sphincter
Also known as the lower esophageal sphincter
Giardiasis
Infection with the flagellate protozoan Giardia lamblia, characterized by protracted, intermittent diarrhea with symptoms suggesting malabsorption, and by abdominal pain, distention, and flatulence; light infections are usually asymptomatic
Gland
An aggregation of cells, specialized to secrete or excrete materials not related to their ordinary metabolic needs
Glucose
A monosaccharide, C6H12O6 found in certain foodstuffs, especially fruits and in the normal blood of all animals. It is the chief energy source for living organisms , its utilization being controlled by insulin
Glutaraldehyde
A high-level disinfectant that is effective against vegetative gram-positive, gram-negative, and acid-fast bacteria, some bacterial spores, some fungi and viruses
Glycerol
A trihydric sugar alcohol that is the alcoholic component of the fats; it is soluble in water and alcohol and is an intermediate in the metabolism of fatty acids
Glycogen
A polysaccharide that is the chief carbohydrate storage material in animals. It is a long-chain polymer of glucose, formed in and largely stored in the liver and to a lesser extent in muscles, being depolymerized to glucose and liberated as needed
Goal
- A desired outcome that should reflect the mission statement of an organization
- A desired patient outcome, which must be realistic, usable, observable and specific
Goblet cell
A unicellular mucous gland found in the epithelium of various mucous membranes, especially in the respiratory passages and the intestines. Droplets of mucigen collect in the upper part of the cell and distend it, while the basal end remains slender and the cell assumes the shape of a goblet
Greater curvature
The lower lateral border of the stomach
Greater omentum
A layer of visceral peritoneum that hangs from the greater curvature of the stomach over the anterior side of the abdominal viscera
Grounding pad
A dispersive electrode that is securely attached to the patient’s skin and serves to complete the current flow from a monopolar electrosurgery probe, through the patient’s body, and back to the generator
Also known as grounding plate
Halon
Bromotrafluoromethane. A commercial product used in fire extinguishers that are safe for use in areas containing sensitive electrical equipment
Haustrum
Sacculaton in the wall of the colon produced by adaptation of its length to that of the tenia colim or by the arrangement of the circular muscle fibers
Plural: haustra
Health problem
A condition related to health that requires intervention if disease or illness is to be prevented or resolved and if coping and wellness are to be promoted
Heartburn
A Retrosternal sensation of warmth or burning that occurs in waves and tends to rise toward the neck
AKA: pyrosis
Heater probe
A hollow aluminum cylinder with an inner heat coil and an outer coating of Teflon that is applied directly to a bleeding vessel to produce hemostasis using bipolar electrocoagulation
Helicobacter Pylori
A gram-negative curved or special rod that is microaerophilic
Formerly Campylobacter pylori
Heller’s myotomy
Surgical procedure performed to treat achalasia
Hematochezia
The passage of bloody stool
Hematocrit
The volume percentage of red blood cells in whole blood
Hemoccult
The trademark for a modification of the guaiac test for occult blood, in which guaiac-impregnated filter paper is used; the test is positive if the specimen turns blue
Hemochromatosis
A disorder of iron metabolism characterized by excess deposition of iron in the tissues, especially in the liver and pancreas, and by bronze pigmentation of the skin, cirrhosis, diabetes mellitus, and associated bone and joint changes
Hemoglobin
The oxygen-carrying pigment of the red blood cells
Hemolysis
The liberation of hemoglobin from the red blood cells and its appearance in the plasma
Hemorrhage
Bleeding; the escape of blood from the blood vessels
Hepatic duct
The duct that is formed by the union of the right and left hepatic ducts and in turn joins the cystic duct to form the common bile duct
Hepatic encephalopathy
A condition usually occurring secondary to advanced liver disease by also seen in the course of any severe disease or in patients with portacaval shunts. Marked by disturbances of consciousness that may progress to deep coma (hepatic coma), psychiatric changes, flapping tremor and fetor hepaticus
Also called Porto-systemic encephalopathy
Hepatic flexure
The right flexure of the colon; the bend in the large intestine at which the ascending colon becomes the transverse colon
Hepatitis
Inflammation of the liver
Hepatocyte
A parenchymal liver cell
Hepatorenal syndrome
A syndrome characterized by functional renal failure, oliguria, and low urinary sodium concentration, without pathological renal changes, associated with cirrhosis and ascites or with obstructive jaundice
Hiatal hernia
Occurs when a portion of the stomach protrudes through the diaphragmatic hiatus into the thoracic cavity
High-level disinfection
Process of cleaning instruments that destroys all microorganisms with the exception of low levels of bacterial spores
Highly selective vagotomy
Surgical procedure interrupting the nerve fibers to the antrum but preserving the innervation of the pyloric region
Hirschsprung’s disease
Megacolon caused by congenital absence of myenteric ganglion cells in a distal segment of the colon. The resultant loss of motor function causes massive hypertrophic dilatation of the normal proximal colon; the aganglionic segment usually remains narrowed but may dilate passively
Also known as congenital megacolon or aganglionic megacolon
Histamine
A decarboxylation product of histimine found in all body tissues. Cellular receptors of histamine include H1 receptors, which mediate the effects of histamine on smooth muscle and capillaries; and H2 receptors, which mediate the acceleration of heart rate and the promotion of gastric acid secretion
Histamine2 (H2) blocker
An agent that blocks the cellular receptor site for histamine that is responsible for stimulating the heart rate and gastric secretion
Histology
The study of the minute structure, composition and function of the tissues; also called microscopical anatomy
Hot biopsy forceps
A type of biopsy forceps that is insulated by a nonconducting sheath and attached to an electrocoagulation snare handle
Hurst bougie
One of a series of blunt-tipped, mercury-filled tubes of graded diameter used for dilating esophageal strictures
Hydrogen breath test
A measure of the amount of hydrogen expelled in the breath after ingestion of a carbohydrate drink; used to detect carbohydrate malabsorption, abnormal gastrointestinal transit time or bacterial overgrowth in the small bowel
Hydrostatic balloon
A polyethylene balloon that can be inserted into the GI tract and inflated with fluid to a specified pressure; used primarily for the dilatation of strictures
Hypertonic
A term denoting a solution that, when bathing body cells, causes a net flow of water across the semipermeable cell membrane out of the cell. Also denotes a solution having a greater tonicity than another solution to which it is being compared
Hypoalbuminemia
An abnormally low albumin content in the blood
Hypoglycemia
An abnormally low glucose content in the blood, which may lead to tremulousness, cold sweat, piloerection, hypothermia, and headache, accompanied by confusion, hallucinations, bizarre behavior, and ultimately, convulsions and coma
Hypopharyngeal sphincter
Upper esophageal sphincter
Hypothesis
A declarative conjectured statement posing a relationship between two or more variables; hypotheses lead to empirical studies that seek to confirm or disconfirm the relationships
Hypotonic
A term denoting a solution that, when bathing body cells, causes a net flow of water across the semipermeable cell membrane into the cell; also denotes a solution having less tonicity than another solution, to which it is being compared
Hypovolemia
Abnormally decreased volume of circulating fluid in the body
Ileocecal valve
A functional valve at the junction of the ileum and cecum, consisting of circular muscle of the terminal ileum
Ileum
The distal portion of the small intestine, extending from the jejunum to the cecum
Independent intervention
Nursing action initiated without direction or supervision of other health care professionals. Independent nursing intervention is instituted as the result of a nursing assessment
Independent variable
A concept capable of taking on different values whose value is unaffected by other variables in a given study
Indicator
A measurable variable that is used to measure the degree to which standards are met
Infantile hypertrophic pyloric stenosis
Congenital obstruction of the pyloric lumen caused by pyloric muscular hypertrophy
Infectious waste
Waste capable of producing an infectious disease; includes human, animal, or biological wastes and any items that may be contaminated with pathogens
Infiltration
The diffusion or accumulation in a tissue or cells of substances not normal to it or in amounts in excess of the normal
Inflammatory bowel disease
A general term for inflammatory diseases of the bowel of unknown etiology, including Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis
Informed consent
An interaction between physician and patient in which a meaningful exchange of information concerning an impending health care administration occurs. Consent is not valid without fulfillment of these four requirements: full disclosure, competent judgement and decision making ability, comprehension of the procedure and its associated risks and after affects, and free will.
Insufflation
The act of blowing a vapor, gas or air into a body cavity
Interdependent intervention
Nursing action performed in concert with the efforts of other health care professionals
Intervention
All those activities the nurse identifies that directly relate to the nursing diagnosis and are directed toward improving the patient’s problem
Interview
A meeting of patient and nurse to gather data concerning a patient’s health status, health problems, risks, weaknesses, strengths and need for nursing care
Intestinal pseudoobstruction
A condition characterized by constipation, colicky pain, and vomiting, but without evidence of organic obstruction
Intrahepatic biliary dysplasia
A rare autosomal-dominant liver disease that incorporates a combination of anomalies in conjunction with chronic cholestasis
Intussusception
The prolapse of one part of the intestine into the lumen of an immediately adjoining part
Ionizing radiation
High-energy radiation that interacts with matter to produce ion pairs
Irritable bowel syndrome
A chronic noninflammatory disease characterized by excessive secretion of mucus and disordered colonic motility with consequent colic, constipation and/or diarrhea with the passage of mucus. It is a common disorder with a psychophysiological basis
Ischemic colitis
Acute vascular insufficiency of the colon usually involving the portion supplied by the inferior mesenteric artery. The classic radiological sign is thumb printing caused by localized elevation of the mucosa by submucosal hemorrhage or edema. Ulceration may follow
Islet of Langerhans
One of the irregular microscopic structures scattered throughout the pancreas and comprising the endocrine portion of the pancreas
Isotonic
A term denoting a solution in which body cells can be bathed without a net flow of water across the semipermeable cell membrane. Also denotes a solution having the same tonicity as another solution, to which it is being compared
Jaundice
A syndrome characterized by hyperbilirubinemia and deposition of bile pigment in the skin, mucous membranes and sclera with resulting yellow appearance of the patient
Jejunum
The portion of the small bowel that extends from the duodenum to the ileum
Jackhammer esophagus
Esophageal peristalsis with a contractile amplitude two to three times the normal volume
Also known as nutcracker esophagus
Joint Commission (JC)
An independent credentialing agency that grants approval to health care facilities that voluntarily comply with the agency’s standards for public and patient health and safety
Kupffer cell
A large, star-shaped or pyramidal cell with a large oval nucleus and a small prominent nucleolus. These intensely phagocytic cells line the walls of the sinusoids of the liver and from part of the reticuloendothelial system
Lactase deficiency
A deficiency in the brush-border enzyme lactase, which causes malabsorption of the disaccharide lactose; patients typically experience distention, flatulence, cramping and diarrhea within minutes of ingesting milk or milk products
Lamina propria
The connective tissue coat of a mucous membrane
Laparoscope
A fiberoptic instrument that permits inspection of the peritoneal cavity
Laparoscopy
Examination of the interior of the abdomen using a laparoscope
Laparotomy
A surgical incision made through the abdomen
Laser
Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation. A device that transforms light of various frequencies into an extremely intense, small and nearly nondivergent beam of monochromatic radiation in the visible region with all the waves in phase. Capable of mobilizing immense heat and power when focused at close range, it is used as a tool in surgical procedures, in diagnosis and in physiological studies
Lavage
The irrigation or washing out of an organ, such as the stomach or bowel
Laxative
An agent that acts to promote evacuation of the bowel
Lesser curvature
The upper lateral border of the stomach
Lesser omentum
A layer of visceral peritoneum that attaches the lesser curvature of the stomach to the underside of the liver
Leukocyte
A white blood cell
Liability
Legal responsibility for one’s acts (or failure to act), including the responsibility for financial restitution in the event of demonstrable damages resulting from negligent acts
Ligament of Treitz
Suspensory muscle of the duodenum; a flat band of smooth muscle originating from the diaphragm and continuous with the muscular coat of the duodenum at its junction with the jejunum
Line organization
A traditional form of organizational structure, in which each position has authority over a lower one in the organization
Linton tube
A three-lumen tube used for esophageal-gastric tamponade; it has a gastric balloon but no esophageal balloon, and ports for both gastric and esophageal aspiration
Lipid
A fat or fatlike substance that is easily stored in the body and serves as a source of fuel. They include the fatty acids, neutral fats, waxes and steroids; compound lipids include glycolipids, lipoproteins and phospholipids
Lithotripsy
The crushing of gallstones or bladder calculi, either by using a mechanical lithotripter or by focusing shock waves on the stone
Lower esophageal sphincter (LES)
A group of thickened circular muscles at the distal end of the esophagus, which regulate the entry of food into the stomach. Also known as the cardiac sphincter or gastroesophageal sphincter
Malabsorption
Impaired intestinal absorption of nutrients
Maldigestion
Impaired digestion
Mallory-Weiss tear
A mucosal tear and the gastro-esophageal junction that is associated with prolonged forceful vomiting
Malnutrition
Any disorder of nutrition, whether caused by unbalanced or insufficient diet or by defective assimilation or utilization of foods
Maloney bougie
One of a series of mercury-filled bougies similar to the Hurst bougie but with a conical tip
Malrotation
Failure of normal rotation of an organ, as of the gut, during embryonic development
Manometry
Measurement of pressure or contraction, especially within the GI tract
Matrix organization
A type of organizational structure that looks at individual subsystems within a complex structure. These subsystems can be viewed anywhere on the continuum from totally dependent to totally autonomous
Mean
The index of central tendency usually referred to as the average; it is the sum of the values in a set, divided by the total number of elements in the set
Meckel’s diverticulum
An occasional sacculation or appendage of the ileum, derived from an unobliterated yolk stalk
Median
That point in a set of values above which and below which 50% of the values lie
Medical diagnosis
Classification of a patient’s medical condition, based on interpretation of data related to pathology and etiology; usually implies a course of treatment
Megacolon
Abnormally large or dilated colon the condition may be congenital or acquired, acute or chronic
Meissner’s plexus
The part of the enteric plexus that is situated in the submucosa. Also called the submucosal plexus
Microorganism
A minute living organism, usually microscopic, including bacteria, viruses, fungi and protozoa
Microvillus
A minute cylindrical process on the free surface of a cell, especially in the intestinal epithelium
Mineral
A nonorganic, homogeneous solid substance, usually a constituent of the earth’s crust
Minimum effective concentration
Threshold strength below which a disinfecting solution should not be used
Minnesota tube
A four-lumen tube used for esophageal-gastric tamponade; it has both gastric and esophageal balloons and ports for gastric and esophageal aspiration
Mission statement
A statement that describes the intent of a specific organization. The statement should include the unit’s overall goals, objectives, services and the intent of the quality to be delivered
Mode
The numerical value in a set of values that occurs most frequently
Modified Whipple’s procedure
Pylorus-preserving pancreaticoduodenectomy
Monitoring
The measurement of physiological parameters, including the use of mechanical devices and clinical observations
Monoglyceride
A compound consisting of one molecule of fatty acid esterified to glycerol
Monopolar electrocoagulation
An electrocoagulation method in which the electrical current flows between a small, active electrode that is in contact with the target tissue and a larger grounding pad that is attached to the patients skin
Monosaccharide
A simple sugar; a carbohydrate that cannot be decomposed by hydrolysis. The monosaccharides are colorless crystalline substances, with a sweet taste, and which have the general formula CH2O
Narcotic
An agent that depresses the central nervous system, reduces pain and sometimes produces sleep
Narcotic antagonist
An agent that opposes the action of narcotics on the nervous system
Nasobiliary catheter (NBC)
A catheter that is inserted endoscopically into the common bile duct during ERCP, with the opposite end brought out through the patient’s nostril. Its purpose is to provide drainage or to allow the instillation of therapeutic solutions
Nasoenteric intubation
Insertion of a tube that is passed through the naris, into the stomach, and then into the intestinal tract; used primarily to remove intestinal contents or to provide for tube feeding (enteral nutrition)
Nasogastric tube
A soft rubber or plastic tube that is inserted through a nostril and into the stomach, for instilling liquid foods or other substances, or for withdrawing gastric contents
Nasopancreatic catheter (NPC)
Long, thin, polyethylene tube placed endoscopically into the pancreatic duct and routed through the nose for short-term decompression or perfusion
Nd:YAG (neodymium:yttrium-aluminum-garnet)
A mineral crystal that is used as a laser medium to produce 1060-nm light
Needle
A sharp instrument used for suturing or puncturing
Nissen fundoplication
Open abdominal surgical antiesophageal reflux procedure
Nitrogen balance
A state of the body in regard to ingestion and excretion of nitrogen. In negative nitrogen balance the amount of nitrogen excreted is greater than the quantity ingested; in positive nitrogen balance the amount excreted is smaller than the amount ingested
Noncritical item
An item that either does not ordinarily touch the patient or touches only intact skin. Washing with a detergent is often sufficient cleaning for these items
Normal saline
An isotonic solution of sodium chloride for temporarily maintaining living cells. Also known as physiological saline
Null hypothesis
The hypothesis that states that there is no relationship between the variables under study. It is used primarily in connection with tests of statistical significance as the hypothesis to be rejected
Nursing audit
The method of evaluating care, the outcomes of care or the process by which these outcomes are achieved by using a review of patient records
Nursing diagnosis
A statement of an actual or potential health problem that can be alleviated or prevented by independent nursing intervention
Nursing examination
A physical assessment focused on functional abilities, usually performed in a head-to-toe format, during which objective data about a patient’s health status is gathered steps in the examination include inspection, auscultation, percussion and palpation
Nursing history
An interview-style assessment that is performed to evaluate a patient’s health status, health problems, risks, weakness, strengths and need for nursing care
Nursing order
A prescription for the nursing care that is to be given to achieve patient health goals
Nursing process
A systematic approach to nursing care using problem-solving techniques. It encompasses assessment, diagnosis, outcome identification, planning, implementation and evaluation
Nutrition
The processes involved in taking nutrients and assimilating and using them
Objective
An observable activity that is developed to help achieve the established goals of an organization
Objective data
Facts perceptible by the senses of one observer that can be verified by another person observing the same data
Observation
Systematic, deliberate use of the five sense to gather data
Obstipation
Intractable constipation
Occult blood
Blood present in such small quantities that is can be detected only by chemical tests of suspected material, or by microscopic or spectroscopic examination
Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)
The federal regulatory agency responsible for enforcing safety and health regulations in the workplace
Odynophagia
Painful swallowing
Oral
Pertaining to the mouth; taken through or applied in the mouth
Organizational structure
A structure that determines the process by which a group of people distribute responsibilities, establish lines of communication, identify relationships and establish accountability
Osmosis
The passage of a solvent from a solution of lesser to one greater solute concentration when two solutions are separated by a membrane that selectively prevents the passage of solution molecules but is permeable to the solvent
Outcome
The end product of nursing care; measurable changes in a patient’s health or behavior
Outcome identification
An actual or potential health problem exhibited by an individual through the process of clinical reasoning and judgement functions that nurses by virtue of their education and experience are capable and licensed to treat independently
Outcome standard
A patient-focused standard that addresses changes in the patient’s health status or the results of nursing care
Overtube
A polyvinyl sleeve that fits over an endoscope and serves to protect the esophageal mucosa and the airway during various upper GI procedures, including extraction of foreign bodies
Oxyntic cell
A parietal cell
Pancreas
A large, elongated gland situated transversely behind the stomach, between the spleen and the duodenum
Pancreas divisum
A developmental anomaly in which the pancreas is present as two separate structures, each with its own duct
Pancreatic enzyme insufficiency
A deficiency in pancreatic exocrine function, leading to malabsorption of fats and other nutrients
Pancreatic fistula
An abnormal passage between the pancreas and another organ, or, more often, between the pancreas and the exterior, often following pancreatic trauma, external drainage of a pseudocyst or pancreatic surgery
Pancreaticoduodenectomy
Surgical procedure indicated as therapy for chronic pancreatitis and its inherent complications and as a therapy for pancreatic cancer
Pancreatitis
Acute or chronic inflammation of the pancreas
Paneth’s cell
A narrow, pyramidal or columnar epithelial cell with a round or oval nucleus close to the base of the cell, occurring in the fundus of the crypts of Lieberkuhn; Paneth’s cells contain large secretory granules that may contain peptidase
Papillotome
A cutting instrument for incising the papilla of Vater
Papillotomy
Incision of a papilla
Paracentesis
Surgical puncture of a cavity for the aspiration of fluid, especially the abdominal cavity
Paralytic ileus
Obstruction of the intestines resulting from inhibition of bowel motility, which may be produced by numerous causes, most frequently by peritonitis
Parenteral
Administration of medications or nutrition by an injection route, such as subcutaneous, intramuscular or intravenous
parietal cell
A cell type located in the parietal glands of the stomach and that secretes hydrochloric acid and intrinsic factor
Also known as oxyntic cells
Pathology
The structural or functional manifestations of disease
Pedunculated polyp
A polyp that is attached to the mucosa by a stemlike pedicure or stalk
Peptic ulcer
An ulceration of the mucous membrane of the esophagus, stomach or duodenum, caused by the action of the acid gastric juice
Peracetic acid
A chemical solution used for high-level disinfection
Percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG)
A technique for the endoscopic insertion of a gastrostomy feeding tube, for the purpose of providing enteral feeding
Percutaneous endoscopic jejunostomy (PEJ)
A technique for the endoscopic insertion of a feeding tube into the jejunum, for the purpose of providing enteral feeding
Percutaneous liver biopsy
Aspiration biopsy of the liver by using a needle that has been inserted through a small incision in the skin
Percutaneous transhepatic Cholangiogram
A roentgenogram of the hepatic and biliary ductal systems following injection of contrast directly into an intrahepatic bile duct, using a needle that is introduced percutaneously into the liver, through the eighth or ninth intercostal space
Perforation
A hole made through a body part
Peripheral Parenteral nutrition (PPN)
Intravenous administration of a prescribed diet by means of a catheter inserted into a peripheral vein
Peristalsis
A distally progressive band of circulator muscle contraction that causes the gradual progression of digestive contents through the GI tract
Peritoneoscopy
Examination of the peritoneal cavity by an instrument (laparoscope) that is inserted through the abdominal wall
Peritoneum
The serous membrane that lines the abdominopelvic walls and holds the viscera in place
Pernicious anemia
A megaloblastic anemia occurring in children or more commonly in later life, characterized by histamine-fast achlorhydria; laboratory and clinical manifestations are based on malabsorption of vitamin B12 because of a failure of the gastric mucosa to secrete adequate and potent intrinsic factor
Peutz-Jeghers syndrome
A hereditary syndrome characterized by gastrointestinal polyposis associated with excessive melanin pigmentation of the skin and mucous membranes; gastrointestinal bleeding and intussusception are common complications
Peyer’s patch
An oval elongated area of lymphoid tissue on the mucosa of the small intestine, composed of many lymphoid nodules closely packed together
Philosophy
Major beliefs held by an individual or the members of a group
Phlebitis
Inflammation of a vein
Photocoagulation
Condensation of protein material by the controlled use of an intense beam of light
Physiograph
Device that produces a graphic display of test results
Pigtail stent
A stent that is coiled at one or both ends. The coiled shape straightens out when the stent is pulled taut but returns when it is allowed to relax
Placebo effect
An assumed psychological response to administration of a treatment suggested by the process of taking a medicine; usually encountered in drug testing, these effects are discounted from the real effects of the drug under study
Planning
The development of patient goals based on nursing diagnoses for the purpose of preventing, reducing or resolving health problems through nursing intervention
Plasma
The fluid portion of the blood, in which the particulate components are suspended
Plasmolysis
Contraction or shrinking of a cell caused by the loss of water by osmotic action
Platelet
A disk-shaped structure found in the blood of mammals and chiefly known for its role in blood coagulation
Plexus
A general term for a network if lymphatic vessels, nerves or veins
Pneumatic balloon
A balloon that is inserted over a guidewire into the lower esophageal sphincter and then inflated to a preset pressure and left in place for a period of time; used in the treatment of patients with achalasia
Pneumoperitoneum
The presence of gas or air in the peritoneal cavity; it may occur spontaneously, as in a subphrenic abscess, or be deliberately introduced as an aid to radiological examination and diagnosis
Polyp
A protruding growth from any mucous membrane; includes gastric polyps
Polypectomy
Surgical or endoscopic removal of a polyp
Polypectomy snare
A sheathed wire loop that can be passed through the instrument channel of an endoscope; it may be attached to an electro surgical unit and used to apply coagulation current for removal of gastrointestinal polyps, or it may be used to remove foreign bodies
Polyposis
The development of multiple polyps on a part
Population
All of the members of a group in which a survey researcher is interested; the entire set of people, objects, etc., with characteristics in common
Porphyria
Any of a group of disturbances of porphyrin metabolism, characterized by marked increase in formation and excretion of porphyrins or their precursors
Portal hypertension
Abnormally increased blood pressure in the portal venous system, a frequent complication of cirrhosis of the liver
Portal triad
The grouping of the tributaries of the hepatic artery, hepatic vein and the bile duct at the angles of the lobules of the liver
Position description
A delineation of the responsibilities of an individual in an organization, including the title of the position, the department, the person to whom the individual is responsible, a job summary, job qualifications and specific duties and functions
Possible health problem
A health condition that has a high probability of developing because of an existing condition or disease
Potential health problem
A health condition that does not presently exist, but because of the presence of identified risk factors, requires that the nurse take preventive measures
Pressure transducer
A device that translates one form of energy to another; in the case of manometric pressure transducers, changes in pressure are translated into electrical signals
Primary sclerosing cholangitis
A rare and serious condition in which inflammation involves the entire biliary tract; often related to GI or biliary tract infection
Priority setting
The activity concerned with ranking nursing diagnoses in order of actual or potential threat to the patient’s well-being
Process improvement
A systemic approach to the way work is designed and performance is measured, assessed and improved
Process standard
A standard that focuses on the nature and sequence of activities carried out by nurses implementing the nursing process; describes an acceptable level of performance of nursing actions
Proctoscopy
Inspection of the rectum with a speculum or tubular instrument with appropriate illumination
Proctosigmoidoscopy
Examination of the rectum and sigmoid colon with an instrument designed for illuminating and viewing those areas
Project organization
An organizational structure that is designed to complete a specific task
Prostaglandin
A group of naturally occurring, chemically related, long-chain hydroxy fatty acids that stimulate contractility of smooth muscle and have the ability to lower blood pressure, regulate acid secretion of the stomach, regulate body temperature and platelet aggregation and control inflammation and vascular permeability; they also affect the action of certain hormones. There are six types: A, B, C, D, E and F, with the degree of saturation off the side chain of each being designated by subscripts 1, 2 and 3
Protein
Any group of complex organic compounds, which contain carbon, hydrogen, oxygen, nitrogen, and usually sulfur, the characteristic element being nitrogen. Proteins are of high molecular weight and consist essentially of combinations of (alpha-amino acids) in peptide linkages
Prothrombin
Coagulation factor II, a protein present in the plasma that is converted to thrombin
Prothrombin time
A measure of the rapidity of blood clotting that examines coagulation factors I, II, V, VII, and X
Pseudocyst
An abnormal or dilated space resembling a cyst but not lined by epithelium as is a true cyst. A pancreatic pseudocyst is an encapsulated collection of pancreatic juice and cellular debris that has escaped from the pancreas, the wall being formed by inflammatory fibrosis of serosal surfaces of adjacent organs; pseudocysts most commonly occur in the lesser sac of the peritoneum
Pseudomembranous colitis
An acute inflammation of the bowel mucosa with the formation of pseudomembranous plaques overlying an area of superficial ulceration and the passage of the pseudomembranous material in the feces; may result from shock and ischemia or be associated with antibiotic therapy
Also called necrotising enterocolitis
Pyloric gland
A gland located in the antrum or pylorus of the stomach; contains mucous cells and G cells
Pyloric sphincter
The thickened muscular sphincter that controls the passage of food from the stomach into the duodenum
Pyloric stenosis
Obstruction of the pyloric sphincter at the outlet of the stomach
Pylorus
The most distal portion of the stomach, lying between the antrum and the duodenum
Pyrosis
Heartburn
Qualitative
Pertains to describing or analyzing qualities, attributes or characteristics
Quality
In health care, the degree to which actions taken or not take maximize the probability of beneficial outcomes
Quantitative
Pertaining to or measuring quantity
Radiation enteritis
Radiation injury to the intestines, usually occurring as a result of radiotherapy for pelvic, intraabdominal or retroperitoneal malignancies
Radiography
The making of film records (radiographs) of internal structures of the body by passage of x-rays or gamma rays through the body to act on specially sensitized film
Random sample
Selection from the population (or subpopulation) at large performed in such a way that each member of the population has an equal probability of being included in the sample
Range
The highest score (or value) minus the lowest score in a given set of values
Rapid pull-through
A technique whereby a manometry catheter is withdrawn steadily through the esophagus while the patient is not breathing or swallowing
Rectosigmoidoscopy
Endoscopic visualization of the lower portion of the sigmoid colon and the upper portion of the rectum
Rectum
The distal portion of the colon, beginning anterior to the third sacral vertebra as a continuation of the sigmoid and ending at the anal canal
Red blood cell
Erythrocyte
Referral
The process of sending a patient to another source for aid or to another professional doe appropriate action; also, a patient received from another source
Regional enteritis
Crohn’s disease
Regurgitation
A backward flowing of undigested food
Respiratory depression
A decrease in the rapidity and depth of respirations
Respiratory inversion point
During station pull-through, manometry of the lower esophageal sphincter, the point at which the tracing goes down (rather than up) with an inspiration. Indicates the point at which the recording port moves from the abdominal cavity into the thoracic cavity
Retrospective audit
An evaluation of nursing care and patient outcomes performed after discharge of the patient. Post-discharge questionnaires, interviews (over the telephone or face-to-face) or chart review are retrospective auditing techniques
Ringer’s solution
A sterile solution containing sodium chloride, potassium chloride and calcium chloride in water for injection; used as a topical physiological salt solution
Roentgenography
The making of a record (roentgenogram) of internal body structures by passing x-rays through the body to act on specially sensitized film
Role delineation
A statement of the behaviors that are expected of an individual in a certain position, as of a gastroenterology nurse or nursing assistive personnel
Roux-en-Y gastric bypass
Surgical procedure performed to treat morbid obesity
Ruga
A wrinkled ridge in the interior wall of the stomach
Plural - rugae
Sample
The portion of a group or population that is targeted for a survey
Sanitation
A process capable of destroying or reducing the number of microbial contaminations to a relatively safe level, as judged by public health requirements
Savory-Gilliard dilator
One of a series of semi flexible, tapered polyvinyl chloride bougies that are passed over a guidewire for the purpose of widening a gastrointestinal lumen
Schatzki’s ring
One of a series of thin, concentric membranes located at the esophagogastric junction
Schilling test
A test for gastrointestinal absorption of vitamin B12, in which a measured amount of radioactive vitamin B12 is given orally and the percentage of radioactivity in the urine excreted over a 24-hour period is determined
Schindler, Gabriele
The wife of gastroscopist Dr. Rudolph Schindler. She assisted her husband with gastroscopic procedures and is considered a role model for today’s professional gastroenterology nurses and associates
Shwachman-Diamond syndrome
Pancreatic insufficiency, cyclic neutropenia, metaphysical dysostosis and growth retardation. Second most common cause of pancreatic insufficiency in children
Scintigraphy
The production of two-dimensional images of the distribution of radioactivity in tissues after the internal administration of radionuclide, with the images obtained by scintillation camera
Sclerotherapy
The injection of sclerosing solutions in the treatment of hemorrhoids, varicose veins or esophageal varices
Scope of practice
A statement of the dimensions of a professional practice that outlines the functions of individuals in that profession
Secretin
A strongly basic polypeptide hormone secreted by the mucosa of the duodenum and jejunum when acid chyme enters the intestine. Carried by the blood, it stimulates the secretion of a watery pancreatic juice high in salt content but low in enzymes. It has a lesser stimulatory effect on bile and intestinal secretion
Sedation and analgesia
Describes a state that allows patients to tolerate unpleasant procedures while maintaining protective reflexes. Refers to a continuum of states ranging from minimal sedation (anxiolysis) through general anesthesia
Sedative
An agent that allays excitement
Self-expanding metal stents
Compressed and stretched metal devices that increase in diameter and decrease in length automatically on deployment to relieve strictures in lumens of various body structures
Semicritical item
An item or instrument (including endoscopes) that may come in contact with intact mucous membranes by does not ordinarily penetrate body surfaces. Meticulous physical cleaning followed by high-level disinfection is required for these items
Sengstaken-Blakemore tube
A three-lumen tube used for esophageal-gastric tamponade; it has both gastric and esophageal balloons and a port for gastric aspiration
Serum
The cell-free portion of the blood from which the fibrinogen has been separated in the process of clotting
Sessile polyp
A polyp that is attached to the mucosa by a broad base
Shock
- A condition of acute peripheral circulatory failure caused by derangement of circulatory control or loss of circulating fluid; marked by hypotension, coldness of the skin, usually tachycardia and often anxiety
- An extreme stimulation of the nerves, muscles, etc., accompanying the passage of electrical current through the body
Short bowel syndrome
Any of the malabsorption syndromes resulting from massive resection of the small bowel, the degree and kind of malabsorption depending on the site and extent of the resection; characterized by diarrhea, steatorrhea and malnutrition
Sigmoid colon
The s-shaped part of the colon, lying in the pelvis, extending from the pelvic brim to the third segment of the sacrum, and continuous above with the descending (iliac) colon and below with the rectum
Sigmoidoscopy
Inspection of the sigmoid colon through the use of an endoscope
Sinusoid
A form of terminal blood channel consisting of a large, irregular anastomosing vessel; found in the liver, suprarenals, heart, parathyroid, carotid, gland, spleen, hemolymph glands and pancreas
Sliding hiatal hernia
Common type of hiatal hernia in which the gastroesophageal junction and a portion of the stomach slide upward into the mediastinum
Small bowel
The proximal portion of the intestine
Small bowel enteroscopy
Visualization of the small bowel with a long, thin, extremely flexible endoscope
Society of Gastroenterology Nurses and Associates, Inc (SGNA)
The professional organization of nurses and associates dedicated to the safe and effective practice of gastroenterology and endoscopy nursing
Solid-state catheter
A long, flexible manometry catheter that contains a series of miniature pressure transducers that directly record gastrointestinal contractions
Sphincter
A ring-like band of muscle fibers that constricts a passage or closes a natural orifice
Sphincter of Oddi
The sheath of muscle fibers surrounding bile and pancreatic ducts as they pass through the wall of the duodenum
Sphincterotome
An electro surgical instrument for cutting through a sphincter, specifically the sphincter of Oddi
Sphincterotomy
Division of a sphincter, especially division of the sphincter of Oddi during ERCP
Splenic flexure
The left flexure of the colon; the bend at which the transverse colon becomes the descending colon
Sprue
A chronic form of malabsorption syndrome that occurs in both tropical and celiac forms
Staff organization
A type of organizational structure that requires staff to assist management but allows them no authority
Standard
An acceptable, expected level of performance established by authority, custom or consent. Standards in nursing define optimum levels of actual and expected performance
Standard deviation
An average-size spread among the values in a set around the average value in the set; how far away the numbers in a list are from their average
Standard for practice
An authoritative statement of the expected outcomes of professional practice, established through research and/or professional consensus
Standard of care
A measurable statement that defines the means to accomplish a practice outcome
Standard precautions
The minimum infection prevention practices that apply to all patient care, regardless of suspected or confirmed infection status of the patient, in any setting where health care is delivered. Standard precautions are developed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Station pull-through
A technique whereby a manometry catheter is withdrawn through the esophagus in a step-wise fashion while the patient breathes slowly and evenly
Steatorrhea
Excessive amounts of fat in the feces, as in malabsorption syndromes
Stent
A hollow tube or endoprosthesis that is inserted for the purpose of bypassing diseased or obstructed parts of a duct or tubular organ
Sterilization
A process resulting in the complete elimination or destruction of all forms of microbial life
Stoma
An opening established in the abdominal wall by colostomy, ileostomy, etc
Stress ulcer
A form of acute gastritis that is related to a severe trauma, illness or chronic ingestion of certain drugs
Stricture
A narrowing of a canal, duct or other passage as a result of scarring or deposition of abnormal tissue
Structural standard
A standard concerned with the environment in which care is provided
Subjective data
Perceptions by an affected person that cannot be perceived or verified experimentally
Suction biopsy
A method of obtaining tissue specimens from the rectum or small bowel, by creating a vacuum in a specially designed capsule or tube
Syncope
A temporary suspension of consciousness caused by generalized cerebral ischemia; faint
Syndrome
A set of symptoms that occur together; the sum of signs of any morbid state; a symptom complex
Tamponade
Compression of a part
Tenesmus
Straining, especially ineffectual and painful straining at stool or in urination
Tenia coli
Three thickened flat bands, about one-sixth shorter than the colon, formed by the longitudinal fibers in the muscular tunic of the colon and extending from the root of the vermiform appendix to the rectum, where they are spread out and form a continuous layer encircling the tube
Threshold
Acceptable rates of activity that determine when to evaluate care
Tonicity
The effective osmotic pressure equivalent
Topical
Pertaining to a particular surface
Total parenteral nutrition (TPN)
The intravenous administration of the total nutrient requirements of a patient with gastrointestinal dysfunction, accomplished via a central venous catheter, usually inserted in the superior vena cava
Toxic megacolon
Acute dilatation of the colon associated with amebic or ulcerative colitis, it may precede perforation of the colon
Transesophageal fistula
Abnormal passage between the trachea and esophagus
Transverse colon
The portion of the colon that runs transversely across the upper part of the abdomen, from the right to the left colic flexure
Triglyceride
A compound consisting of three molecules of fatty acid esterified to glycerol; it is a neutral fat synthesized from carbohydrates for storage in animal adipose cells. On enzymatic hydrolysis, it releases free fatty acids in the blood
Trocar
A sharp-pointed instrument contained in a cannula, used to puncture the wall of a body cavity’s usually used for insertion of the cannula
Tropical sprue
A malabsorption syndrome occurring in the tropics and subtropics. Protein malnutrition is usually precipitated by malabsorption, and anemia caused by folic acid insufficiency is particularly common
Ulcer
A local defect, or excavation of the surface of an organ or tissue, which is produced by the sloughing of inflammatory necrotic tissue
Ulcerative colitis
Chronic, recurrent ulceration in the colon, chiefly of the mucosa and submucosa, of unknown causes manifested clinically by cramping, abdominal pain, rectal bleeding, and loose discharges of blood, pus, and mucus with scanty fecal particles
Ultrasonography
Mechanical radiant energy with a frequency greater than 20,000 hertz (cycles per second); ultrasonography is the visualization of deep structures of the body by recording the reflections (echoes) of ultrasonic waves directed into the tissues.
Diagnostic ultrasonography uses a frequency range of 1 million to 10 million Hz, or 1 to 10MHz
Upper gastrointestinal (UGI) series
A series of radiographs taken to visualize the esophagus, stomach, and sometimes the small bowel, following ingestion of a barium solution
Upper Esophageal Sphincter (UES)
The sphincter located at the upper end of the esophagus. Also known as the Hypopharyngeal sphincter
Vagotomy
Surgical deenervation of the vagus nerve
Validation
Verification; confirmation
Valsalva maneuver
Forcible exhalation against a closed glottis, resulting in an increase in intrathoracic pressure
Variability
A concept concerned with how spread out or dispersed the data values are about the mean; the degree to which subjects in a sample vary from one another with respect to some critical attribute
Variable
A measured concept or construct; a characteristic or attribute of a person or object that takes on different values within a population under the study
Varix
An enlarged and tortuous vein or artery
Plural - varices
Vasovagal reaction
A transient vascular and neurogenic reaction marked by pallor, nausea, sweating, bradycardia and rapid fall in arterial blood pressure which, when below a critical level, results in loss of consciousness and characteristic EEG changes. It is most often evoked by emotional stress associated with fear or pain
Vermiform appendix
A worm-like diverticulum of the cecum, ranging from 3 to 6 inches in length
Veress needle
A disposable or reusable needle that is used in laparoscopic procedures for the creation of pneumoperitoneum
Vertical banded gastroplasty
Surgical procedure performed to treat morbid obesity
Villus
A small vascular process or protrusion, especially such s protrusion from the free surface of a membrane; the intestinal villi are the numerous threadlike projections that cover the surface of the mucosa of the small bowel and serve as the sites of absorption of fluids and nutrients
Vision
A statement that sets direction for a unity department or institution
Vitamin
An organic substance that occurs in foods in small amounts and that is necessary in trace amounts for the normal metabolic functioning of the body
Volvulus
Intestinal obstruction caused by a knotting and twisting of the bowel
Washing
Collection of a specimen for culture or cytology by injecting and then aspirating 20 to 30ml of nonbacteriostatic saline
Water perfusion catheter
A long, multilumen manometry catheter that is continuously perfume with water. Each lumen has a separate recording port that is attached to a separate external pressure transducer; when a port is occluded by gastrointestinal contractions, the resulting pressure change is recorded on a physiograph
Wet swallow
Swallowing 3 to 5ml of water during esophageal manometry
Whipple’s disease
A malabsorption syndrome characterized by diarrhea, steatorrhea, skin pigmentation, arthralgia and arthritis, lymphadenopathy and central nervous system lesions
Pancreaticoduodenectomy
Whipple procedure
White blood cell
Leukocyte
Whole blood
Blood from which none of the elements have been removed
Wilson’s disease
Hepatolenticular degeneration. A rare progressive disease, inherited as an autosomal-recessive trait, and caused by a defect in the metabolism of copper; a pigmented ring at the outer margin of the cornea is pathognomonic
X-ray
Electromagnetic vibrations of short wavelengths that are produced when high-velocity electrons impinge on various substances. X-rays are able to penetrate some substances much more readily than others and to affect a photographic plate, thus making them useful for taking roentgenogram of various parts of the body. They also cause certain substances to fluoresce, allowing fluoroscopic observation of the size, shape and movements of various organs
Zollinger-Ellison syndrome
A triad comprising intractable, sometimes fulminating and in many ways atypical peptic ulcers; extreme gastric hyperacidity; and gastrin-secreting, nonbeta islet cell tumors of the pancreas
Zymogen cell
Chief cell
Esophageal varices
Esophageal varices are dilated, distended vessels in the esophageal wall
Zenker’s Diverticulum
Zenker’s Diverticulum is an esophageal diverticulum or outpouching that is caused by UES dysfunction
Nutcracker esophagus
Nutcracker esophagus results from an increase is amplitude of peristaltic contractions
Linitis plastica
Linitis plastica is called leather bottle stomach, a diffuse submucosal stomach cancer that causes fibrosis
Gastric polyp
Gastric polyp is an uncommon stomach lesion that protrudes into the stomach
Hypertrophic pyloric stenosis
Hypertrophic pyloric stenosis occurs in infants and is more common in males. The pyloric sphincter resists passage of food to the intestines. This usually requires surgery
Plicae circulares
Plicae circulares are the arrangement of the mucosa and submucosa that provides increased surface area in the small intestines
Intrinsic Factor
Intrinsic factor is produced by the gastric parietal cell and allows for absorption of vitamin B12
Hemorrhoids
Hemorrhoids are swollen blood vessels in the anal area. Internal hemorrhoids occur above the internal sphincter; external hemorrhoids below. Those from the internal area drain into the portal system, so diseases that lead to portal hypertension can lead to internal hemorrhoids
Fecal impaction
Fecal impaction occurs when fecal material is not eliminated appropriately. The retained stool forms a solid collection that impedes further passage of stool.
Encopresis
Encopresis is caused when chronic constipation leads to involuntary stool leakage
Anorectal abscess
Anorectal abscess is a collection of pus in the Anorectal area
Anorectal fistula
Anorectal fistula is an abnormal formation of an opening in the peri-anal area, usually caused by an abscess
Rectal prolapse
Rectal prolapse occurs when rectal tissue protrudes through the anus
Acalculous Cholecystitis
Acalculous Cholecystitis presents with cystitis in the absence of gallstones
Emphysematous Cholecystitis
Emphysematous Cholecystitis refers to Cholecystitis that demonstrates gas in the wall of the gallbladder or biliary ducts
Acute Calculous Cholecystitis
Acute Calculous Cholecystitis is an inflammation of the gallbladder because a gallstone is obstructing the cystic duct
Gallstone Ileus
Gallstone Ileus is intestinal obstruction caused by a gallstone in the ileum
Cholecystokinin-pancreozymin
Cholecystokinin-pancreozymin is an enzyme released by the duodenum that is stimulated by proteins and fats. It acts on the pancreas to stimulate pancreatic enzyme release
Grey Turner’s sign
Grey Turner’s sign is the appearance of a bluish tinge to the flanks secondary to bleeding from acute pancreatitis
Cullen’s sign
Cullen’s sign is the appearance of a bluish tinge around the umbilicus secondary to bleeding from acute pancreatitis
Whipple operation
Whipple operation is a pancreaticoduodenuectomy to treat pancreatic cancer or other diseases
Pancreatic rest
Pancreatic rest refers to pancreatic tissue in sites other than the pancreas
Glisson’s Capsule
Glisson’s capsule is the connective tissue covering enveloping the liver
Glycogenesis
Glycogenesis is the process the liver employs to convert glucose to glycogen for storage
Glycogenolysis
Glycogenolgysis is the process the liver undertakes to convert glycogen to glucose
Gluconeogenesis
Gluconeogenesis is the process the liver uses to synthesize glucose
Caput Medusae
Caput Medusae is caused by portal hypertension leading to dilated vessels around the umbilicus
Biliary Atresia
Biliary Atresia results in scarring of the biliary duct system causing cholestasis and liver damage
Gastrointestinal Manometry
Gastrointestinal manometry is used to assess pressures and motility in the gastrointestinal tract
Scleroderma
Scleroderma is a connective tissue disease that leads to loss of esophageal motility because of absent muscle contraction
Anorectal Manometry
Anorectal Manometry assesses the response of the internal and external sphincters to stimulus of bowel distention
Systemic Amyloidosis
Systemic Amyloidosis is the abnormal condition of the buildup of amyloid in the intestinal wall
Rectal culture
Rectal culture is accomplished by swabbing the rectal area looking for infectious disease
Carey Capsule
Carey capsule is equipment that allows for small bowel biopsy
Crosby Capsule
Crosby capsule is equipment that allows for small bowel biopsy
Brush cytology
Brush cytology involves passing a tiny brush through the biopsy channel
Biliary drainage studies
Biliary drainage studies require that a tube be passed into the duodenum and then the gallbladder is stimulated to contract. Secretions are collected and examined
Bleeding time
Bleeding time is measure of platelet function. The time it takes a patient to clot after a cut can be timed
Serum D-Xylose test
Serum D-Xylose test assesses the ability of the small intestine, particularly the upper small bowel, to absorb necessary substances
Glucose tolerance test
Glucose tolerance test assesses a patient’s ability to respond to a glucose challenge. Abnormal responses suggest diabetes
Serum Cholesterol
Serum cholesterol is measured for a number of reasons. Elevated levels are associated with increased cardiac disease and may be caused by certain diseases, including gastrointestinal diseases
Carcinoembryonic Antigen
Carcinoembryonic antigen levels are elevated with certain forms of cancer or inflammatory diseases
Breath Tests
Breath tests require the measurement of exhaled gases after the ingestion of a labeled substance
Rigiflex dilators
Rigiflex dilators are pneumatic balloons used to dialate the lower esophageal sphincter
Photovaporization
Photovaporization occurs at 100C and cuts or destroys tissue
Ethamolin
Ethamolin is Ethanolamine oleate, a sclerosing agent
Vascular access devices
Vascular access devices are for long term use. They include central venous line devices and indwelling infusion ports
PCA
PCA or patient-controlled analgesia devices are patient controlled intravenous access devices for the delivery of pain medication
Leukocyte-poor blood
Leukocyte-poor blood is blood used for prospective transplant patients because it reduces the likelihood of sensitization to tissue antigens
Melena
Melena occurs when the individual produces odiferous, tarry stools
Hematemesis
Hematemesis is vomiting blood
Bacteremia
Bacteremia is the presence of bacterial organisms in the blood
Cheyne-Stokes Respirations
Cheyne-Stokes Respirations are periods of increased respirations interspersed with periods of decreased respirations
Positive Nitrogen Balance
Positive nitrogen balance results when protein synthesis exceeds protein degradation
Negative Nitrogen Balance
Negative nitrogen balance results when protein degradation exceeds protein intake
Peptavlon
Peptavlon is pentagastrin, a drug used that causes an increase in gastric acid secretion
Tensilon
Tensilon is Edrophonium chloride, used to stimulate esophageal spasm
Glucagon
Glucagon, which decreases motility, may be used for different procedures
Kinevac
Kinevac is cholecystokinin and is used to cause the gallbladder to contract
Chenix
Chenix or chenodeoxycholic acid is used to dissolve cholesterol gallstones
Actigall
Actigall or ursodeoxycholic acid is used to dissolve cholesterol gallstones
Monooctanoin
Monooctanoin is used to dissolve cholesterol gallstones
Meperidine
Meperidine or Demerol is a narcotic analgesic that is especially useful in biliary or pancreatic diseases
Fentanyl
Fentanyl or sublimaze is a narcotic analgesic associated with less nausea and vomiting
Narcan
Narcan or naloxone is used to reverse sedation and respiratory depression caused by opioids
Romazicon
Romazicon or Flumazenil can reverse the sedation of benzodiazepines
Sclerosing agents
Sclerosing agents are used to thrombose and fibrose varices
Isordil
Isordil is used to treat esophageal spasm
Procardia
Procardia or nifedipine is a calcium channel blocker used to relax the LES
