Podcast
Questions and Answers
Distension of the rectum stimulates peristalsis, which is a key component of the defecation process, but what other factor also stimulates defecation?
Distension of the rectum stimulates peristalsis, which is a key component of the defecation process, but what other factor also stimulates defecation?
A patient reports infrequent bowel movements, straining during defecation, and a feeling of incomplete evacuation. If the patient's constipation is a direct result of their sedentary lifestyle and consistently low fiber intake, which type of constipation is this?
A patient reports infrequent bowel movements, straining during defecation, and a feeling of incomplete evacuation. If the patient's constipation is a direct result of their sedentary lifestyle and consistently low fiber intake, which type of constipation is this?
A patient taking antibiotics for a severe infection develops frequent, watery stools and is diagnosed with diarrhea. If the patient's diarrhea is most likely attributed directly to the medication they are taking, what is the best course of action?
A patient taking antibiotics for a severe infection develops frequent, watery stools and is diagnosed with diarrhea. If the patient's diarrhea is most likely attributed directly to the medication they are taking, what is the best course of action?
A patient reports rectal bleeding, pain, and swelling near the anus, but denies any known history of constipation, pregnancy, or prolonged sitting. If the patient is experiencing an external hemorrhoid, where should you expect it to be located?
A patient reports rectal bleeding, pain, and swelling near the anus, but denies any known history of constipation, pregnancy, or prolonged sitting. If the patient is experiencing an external hemorrhoid, where should you expect it to be located?
A patient with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) reports increased symptoms, including abdominal pain, altered bowel habits, and bloating. If their symptoms are most likely exacerbated by psychological stress and certain dietary choices, what is the best first-line recommendation?
A patient with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) reports increased symptoms, including abdominal pain, altered bowel habits, and bloating. If their symptoms are most likely exacerbated by psychological stress and certain dietary choices, what is the best first-line recommendation?
A patient diagnosed with Ulcerative Colitis (UC) is experiencing a flare-up of symptoms, including chronic diarrhea and abdominal pain. If the priority is to control the inflammatory response and reduce the acute symptoms, what kind of medication is appropriate?
A patient diagnosed with Ulcerative Colitis (UC) is experiencing a flare-up of symptoms, including chronic diarrhea and abdominal pain. If the priority is to control the inflammatory response and reduce the acute symptoms, what kind of medication is appropriate?
A patient with Diverticulitis is prescribed antibiotics and placed on bowel rest with intravenous fluids. If the patient suddenly reports severe abdominal pain and develops a high fever, indicating a potential complication, what action is appropriate?
A patient with Diverticulitis is prescribed antibiotics and placed on bowel rest with intravenous fluids. If the patient suddenly reports severe abdominal pain and develops a high fever, indicating a potential complication, what action is appropriate?
A patient has been diagnosed with a Small Bowel Obstruction (SBO) due to adhesions from a previous surgery. If the patient's condition does not improve; despite interventions such as NPO status, nasogastric tube placement, and IV fluid administration, what action is needed?
A patient has been diagnosed with a Small Bowel Obstruction (SBO) due to adhesions from a previous surgery. If the patient's condition does not improve; despite interventions such as NPO status, nasogastric tube placement, and IV fluid administration, what action is needed?
A patient preparing for a colonoscopy asks about dietary recommendations to reduce their risk of colorectal cancer. If the patient is seeking lifestyle adjustments beyond the colonoscopy, what should the nurse recommend?
A patient preparing for a colonoscopy asks about dietary recommendations to reduce their risk of colorectal cancer. If the patient is seeking lifestyle adjustments beyond the colonoscopy, what should the nurse recommend?
A patient with an ileostomy is being taught about stoma care in preparation for discharge. If the patient is concerned about maintaining skin integrity around the stoma and asks for specific advice, what should they be told?
A patient with an ileostomy is being taught about stoma care in preparation for discharge. If the patient is concerned about maintaining skin integrity around the stoma and asks for specific advice, what should they be told?
A patient with Short Bowel Syndrome (SBS) is experiencing severe malnutrition and weight loss despite dietary modifications and oral supplements. Considering the potential complications of SBS, what nutritional support should be introduced?
A patient with Short Bowel Syndrome (SBS) is experiencing severe malnutrition and weight loss despite dietary modifications and oral supplements. Considering the potential complications of SBS, what nutritional support should be introduced?
A patient with suspected appendicitis reports experiencing sudden pain relief, but the assessment reveals signs of peritonitis. If the patient's pain is now associated with more widespread symptoms, what immediate intervention is needed?
A patient with suspected appendicitis reports experiencing sudden pain relief, but the assessment reveals signs of peritonitis. If the patient's pain is now associated with more widespread symptoms, what immediate intervention is needed?
A patient following a gluten-free diet for Celiac Disease accidentally ingests gluten. If the patient experiences immediate gastrointestinal distress, what should be checked at the next follow-up appointment to assess for long-term adherence?
A patient following a gluten-free diet for Celiac Disease accidentally ingests gluten. If the patient experiences immediate gastrointestinal distress, what should be checked at the next follow-up appointment to assess for long-term adherence?
A patient diagnosed with lactose intolerance wants to manage their symptoms while still consuming dairy products. If the patient has been unsuccessful in minimizing dairy intake long-term, what is the best course of action?
A patient diagnosed with lactose intolerance wants to manage their symptoms while still consuming dairy products. If the patient has been unsuccessful in minimizing dairy intake long-term, what is the best course of action?
A previously healthy patient develops severe abdominal pain, guarding, and a rigid abdomen, and is diagnosed with peritonitis. Considering the possible causes of peritonitis, what is appropriate?
A previously healthy patient develops severe abdominal pain, guarding, and a rigid abdomen, and is diagnosed with peritonitis. Considering the possible causes of peritonitis, what is appropriate?
A patient with Clostridium difficile (C. diff) infection is placed on contact precautions and started on metronidazole. While educating the patient, what is the most effective measure to prevent the spread?
A patient with Clostridium difficile (C. diff) infection is placed on contact precautions and started on metronidazole. While educating the patient, what is the most effective measure to prevent the spread?
Upon assessing a patient, you observe symptoms such as severe abdominal pain, a rigid abdomen, and signs of shock. If the patient has a history of diverticulitis, what complication should be suspected?
Upon assessing a patient, you observe symptoms such as severe abdominal pain, a rigid abdomen, and signs of shock. If the patient has a history of diverticulitis, what complication should be suspected?
A patient with chronic Hepatitis C (HCV) is undergoing treatment to prevent further liver damage. If the patient is prescribed antiviral medications, what additional advice should be given to prevent liver stress?
A patient with chronic Hepatitis C (HCV) is undergoing treatment to prevent further liver damage. If the patient is prescribed antiviral medications, what additional advice should be given to prevent liver stress?
A patient with cirrhosis develops ascites and is prescribed a low-sodium diet and diuretics. If the patient starts to show signs of confusion and altered mental status, what specific intervention is most important?
A patient with cirrhosis develops ascites and is prescribed a low-sodium diet and diuretics. If the patient starts to show signs of confusion and altered mental status, what specific intervention is most important?
A patient who has end-stage liver disease is experiencing esophageal varices. Considering the most immediate risk associated with esophageal varices, what preventative intervention should you anticipate?
A patient who has end-stage liver disease is experiencing esophageal varices. Considering the most immediate risk associated with esophageal varices, what preventative intervention should you anticipate?
A patient with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is advised to manage the condition through lifestyle changes. Besides avoiding alcohol, what strategies should you teach?
A patient with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is advised to manage the condition through lifestyle changes. Besides avoiding alcohol, what strategies should you teach?
A patient with hepatic encephalopathy is prescribed lactulose and rifaximin, but continues to show signs of confusion and asterixis. Beyond medication, what can you recommend?
A patient with hepatic encephalopathy is prescribed lactulose and rifaximin, but continues to show signs of confusion and asterixis. Beyond medication, what can you recommend?
A patient undergoing evaluation for liver disease has elevated alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) levels. If the patient has a family history of hepatocellular carcinoma, what would be the next step?
A patient undergoing evaluation for liver disease has elevated alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) levels. If the patient has a family history of hepatocellular carcinoma, what would be the next step?
A patient with Wilson's disease is struggling to adhere to dietary restrictions aimed at limiting copper intake. If they relapse and consume shellfish, nuts, and chocolate, what medication is appropriate?
A patient with Wilson's disease is struggling to adhere to dietary restrictions aimed at limiting copper intake. If they relapse and consume shellfish, nuts, and chocolate, what medication is appropriate?
A patient is diagnosed with hemochromatosis due to frequent blood transfusions and is undergoing phlebotomy. If the patient has a history of elevated ferritin levels and bronze skin pigmentation, what is necessary to check?
A patient is diagnosed with hemochromatosis due to frequent blood transfusions and is undergoing phlebotomy. If the patient has a history of elevated ferritin levels and bronze skin pigmentation, what is necessary to check?
A patient with autoimmune hepatitis is prescribed corticosteroids to suppress inflammation and asks about long-term health concerns. To identify liver damage, what diagnostic tests can measure this?
A patient with autoimmune hepatitis is prescribed corticosteroids to suppress inflammation and asks about long-term health concerns. To identify liver damage, what diagnostic tests can measure this?
A patient who is jaundiced with ascites, is diagnosed with hepatorenal syndrome. If the patient begins to show signs of kidney failure, what should they be asked about?
A patient who is jaundiced with ascites, is diagnosed with hepatorenal syndrome. If the patient begins to show signs of kidney failure, what should they be asked about?
A patient diagnosed with Budd-Chiari syndrome is prescribed anticoagulation therapy to prevent clot formation. What instructions should be considered based on the medication?
A patient diagnosed with Budd-Chiari syndrome is prescribed anticoagulation therapy to prevent clot formation. What instructions should be considered based on the medication?
A patient is newly diagnosed with Primary Biliary Cholangitis (PBC). Beyond medical treatments, what should be monitored regularly?
A patient is newly diagnosed with Primary Biliary Cholangitis (PBC). Beyond medical treatments, what should be monitored regularly?
A patient is scheduled for endoscopic dilation of bile duct strictures due to Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis (PSC). What medication should be given to improve bile flow after?
A patient is scheduled for endoscopic dilation of bile duct strictures due to Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis (PSC). What medication should be given to improve bile flow after?
A patient with Gilbert's syndrome reports experiencing jaundice and abdominal discomfort. What management should be given to the patient?
A patient with Gilbert's syndrome reports experiencing jaundice and abdominal discomfort. What management should be given to the patient?
A patient is diagnosed with cholelithiasis, reports post-meal Right Upper Quadrant (RUQ) pain, nausea, and vomiting. What should the patient avoid?
A patient is diagnosed with cholelithiasis, reports post-meal Right Upper Quadrant (RUQ) pain, nausea, and vomiting. What should the patient avoid?
A patient is recovering from acute cholecystitis. In addition to monitoring for abdominal pain, what should you monitor for?
A patient is recovering from acute cholecystitis. In addition to monitoring for abdominal pain, what should you monitor for?
A patient recovering from choledocholithiasis reports clay-colored stools and dark urine and has elevated bilirubin. What further information is needed?
A patient recovering from choledocholithiasis reports clay-colored stools and dark urine and has elevated bilirubin. What further information is needed?
A patient undergoing treatment for cholangitis develops sepsis. If they are prescribed antibiotics, what are you monitoring them for?
A patient undergoing treatment for cholangitis develops sepsis. If they are prescribed antibiotics, what are you monitoring them for?
A patient with hypertriglyceridemia experiencing symptoms such as Severe epigastric pain radiating to the back, nausea, vomiting is prescribed pancreatic enzyme replacement. What should be checked?
A patient with hypertriglyceridemia experiencing symptoms such as Severe epigastric pain radiating to the back, nausea, vomiting is prescribed pancreatic enzyme replacement. What should be checked?
A 2-week-old newborn exhibits persistent jaundice, clay-colored stools, failure to thrive and dark urine. What intervention may be necessary?
A 2-week-old newborn exhibits persistent jaundice, clay-colored stools, failure to thrive and dark urine. What intervention may be necessary?
What is indicated for a patient recovering from Gallstone Ileus who experiences severe abdominal pain, and distension. and is unable to pass stool or gas?
What is indicated for a patient recovering from Gallstone Ileus who experiences severe abdominal pain, and distension. and is unable to pass stool or gas?
A newly diagnosed patient has a blood sugar measurement of 200 mg/dL has classic symptoms such as polyuria, polydipsia, weight loss etc. What is the next most important check?
A newly diagnosed patient has a blood sugar measurement of 200 mg/dL has classic symptoms such as polyuria, polydipsia, weight loss etc. What is the next most important check?
A T1DM patient takes Insulin (Lispro, Aspart) before eating meals. For what are you monitoring this patient?
A T1DM patient takes Insulin (Lispro, Aspart) before eating meals. For what are you monitoring this patient?
A nurse is administering a long acting insulin dose. What is the most important action to take?
A nurse is administering a long acting insulin dose. What is the most important action to take?
Flashcards
GI Tract Anatomy
GI Tract Anatomy
Defecation Process
Defecation Process
Primary Constipation
Primary Constipation
Secondary Constipation
Secondary Constipation
Constipation Management
Constipation Management
Diarrhea Causes
Diarrhea Causes
Diarrhea Management
Diarrhea Management
Diarrhea Complications
Diarrhea Complications
Hemorrhoid Types
Hemorrhoid Types
Hemorrhoid Risk Factors
Hemorrhoid Risk Factors
Hemorrhoid Treatment
Hemorrhoid Treatment
IBS Types
IBS Types
IBS Triggers
IBS Triggers
IBS Management
IBS Management
Diverticulosis
Diverticulosis
Diverticulitis
Diverticulitis
Diverticular Disease Treatment
Diverticular Disease Treatment
IBD Types
IBD Types
IBD Management
IBD Management
Bowel Obstruction Types
Bowel Obstruction Types
Bowel Obstruction Symptoms
Bowel Obstruction Symptoms
Bowel Obstruction Management
Bowel Obstruction Management
Colorectal Cancer Risk Factors
Colorectal Cancer Risk Factors
Colorectal Cancer Symptoms
Colorectal Cancer Symptoms
Stoma Characteristics
Stoma Characteristics
Short Bowel Syndrome
Short Bowel Syndrome
Celiac Disease
Celiac Disease
Lactose Intolerance Mngmt
Lactose Intolerance Mngmt
Peritonitis
Peritonitis
C. diff Infection
C. diff Infection
Intestinal Perforation
Intestinal Perforation
Study Notes
Intestinal and Rectal Disorders
- Includes constipation, diarrhea, hemorrhoids, and IBS
Normal Bowel Function and Defecation
- Small intestine absorbs nutrients in the duodenum, jejunum, and ileum
- Large intestine absorbs water, stool formation occurs in the colon
- Rectum and anus are used for waste storage and elimination
- Defecation is stimulated by peristalsis and rectal distension
- Influenced by diet, hydration, physical activity, and neurological control
Constipation
- Primary constipation is due to lifestyle, such as low fiber or dehydration
- Secondary constipation is caused by medications, neurological, or endocrine disorders
- Signs and symptoms: infrequent bowel movements, straining, hard stools, or incomplete evacuation
- Dietary changes: increase fiber to 25-30g/day and 2-3 liters of water daily, and exercise
- Medications: bulk-forming, stool softeners, osmotic agents or stimulant laxatives
Diarrhea
- Caused by infections, food intolerance, or medications
- Can lead to dehydration or electrolyte imbalances, which increases risk for children and elderly
- Management: Oral Rehydration Therapy (ORT) for mild cases, IV fluids for severe dehydration, anti-diarrheal medications if non-infectious, probiotics to restore gut flora
- Diet modifications: BRAT diet
Hemorrhoids
- Internal types are located inside the rectum and may prolapse
- External types are found around the anus
- Risk factors: chronic constipation, pregnancy, obesity, prolonged sitting or standing
- Symptoms: rectal bleeding, pain or itching, or swelling around the anus
- Treatment: lifestyle changes, topical treatments, sitz baths, or surgical interventions
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
- IBS has three types: IBS-C, IBS-D, and IBS-M
- Triggers for IBS are stress, high-fat foods, caffeine, dairy, and artificial sweeteners
- Symptoms: abdominal pain, altered bowel habits, bloating, or excessive gas
- Management: Low FODMAP diet, medications, fiber supplements, loperamide, or probiotics
Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)
- Includes two types: Ulcerative Colitis (UC) which affects the colon and rectum, or Crohn's Disease which affect any part of the Gl tract
- Symptoms: Chronic diarrhea, abdominal pain, weight loss, or malnutrition
- Management: Anti-inflammatory drugs, corticosteroids, immunomodulators, or surgery
Diverticulosis and Diverticulitis
- Diverticulosis is the formation of small pouches in the colon
- Diverticulitis is inflammation/infection of diverticula
- Symptoms: LLQ pain, fever, or nausea/vomiting
- Treatment: High-fiber diet for prevention, antibiotics for infection, bowel rest, or surgery if complications occur
Bowel Obstruction
- Small Bowel Obstruction (SBO) is due to adhesions, hernias, or tumors
- Large Bowel Obstruction is due to colorectal cancer, volvulus, or diverticular disease
- Symptoms: Cramping abdominal pain, distension, vomiting, and absence of bowel movements or gas
- Management: NPO status, NG tube for decompression, IV fluids for hydration, or surgical intervention
Colorectal Cancer
- Risk factors are family history, high-fat low-fiber diet, smoking, alcohol use, or IBD
- Symptoms: Change in bowel habits, blood in stool, weight loss, abdominal pain
- Screening and prevention: Colonoscopy, high-fiber/low-fat diet, or regular physical activity
- Treatment: Surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation therapy
Ostomy Care
- Stoma characteristics: Healthy stomas are pink/red and moist or unhealthy showing pale, dusky, or black
- Empty pouch when 1/3 to 1/2 full, clean with warm water, change appliance every 3-5 days or if leaking, and prevent skin irritation with barrier creams
Malabsorption Syndromes
- Common types: Celiac Disease, Lactose Intolerance, or Short Bowel Syndrome
- Symptoms: Chronic diarrhea, steatorrhea, weight loss, or nutrient deficiencies
- Management: Gluten-free diet for Celiac DIsease, Lactose avoidance or lactase supplements, or Nutritional supplements
Appendicitis
- Symptoms: RLQ pain (McBurney's point), rebound tenderness, nausea, vomiting, low-grade fever, or increased WBC count
- Surgical removal (appendectomy), NPO before surgery, pain management, or monitor for signs of rupture
Short Bowel Syndrome (SBS)
- Definition: Malabsorption disorder due to extensive small intestine resection, leads to poor nutrient absorption
- Causes: Surgical removal of large portions of the small intestine, Crohn's disease complications, or congenital birth defects
- Symptoms: Chronic diarrhea, steatorrhea, malnutrition, weight loss, or vitamin/mineral deficiencies
- Management: Diet of high-protein, low-fat, frequent meals, nutritional support, or medications
Celiac Disease
- Definition: Autoimmune disorder triggered by gluten ingestion, which causes damage to intestinal villi
- Symptoms: Chronic diarrhea, fatigue, weight loss, bloating, or abdominal pain
- Diagnosis by blood tests for anti-tissue transglutaminase (tTG) antibodies
- Treatment: Strict gluten-free diet, supplementation, or monitor for complications
Lactose Intolerance
- Definition: Deficiency of lactase enzyme, leading to inability to digest lactose
- Symptoms: Bloating, gas
- Diagnosis: Hydrogen breath test
- Management: Avoid dairy products or use lactose free alternatives, lactase enzyme supplements, calcium, or vitamin D supplement
Fecal Incontinence
- Definition: Loss of bowel control, leading to unintentional stool passage
- Causes: Nerve damage, weak pelvic muscles, or chronic constipation
- Management: Bowel training, dietary modifications, pelvic floor exercises, or surgical options
Gastroenteritis
- Definition: Inflammation of the stomach and intestines, usually caused by infection
- Causes: Viral (rotavirus, norovirus), Bacterial (Salmonella, E. coli), or Parasitic (Giardia)
- Symptoms: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or dehydration
- Management: Oral rehydration therapy (ORT) for mild cases, IV fluids for severe dehydration
Peritonitis
- Definition: Inflammation of the peritoneum, often due to infection
- Causes: Perforated ulcer, appendicitis rupture, bowel perforation, or peritoneal dialysis infection
- Symptoms: Severe abdominal pain, guarding, board-like rigidity of the abdomen, high fever, or tachycardia
- Management: Immediate IV antibiotics, surgical intervention if necessary or IV fluids and electrolyte replacement
Clostridium difficile (C. diff) Infection
- Definition: Bacterial infection leading to severe diarrhea and colitis
- Risk factors: Recent antibiotic use, hospitalization, or immunosuppression
- Symptoms: Watery diarrhea (foul-smelling), fever, abdominal pain
- Management: Discontinue causative antibiotic, administer metronidazole or vancomycin
Intestinal Perforation
- Definition: A hole or tear in the intestinal wall
- Causes: Trauma, untreated ulcers, appendicitis rupture, or complications of Crohn's disease or diverticulitis
- Symptoms: Severe abdominal pain, board-like rigidity, absent bowel sounds or signs of shock
- Management: NPO status, IV fluids, broad-spectrum antibiotics, immediate surgery, or monitor for sepsis and peritonitis
Key Concepts in GI Nursing Care
- Bowel Elimination Assessment: Frequency, color, consistency, shape, or presence of blood
- Dietary Considerations for GI Health: High-fiber diet or gluten free
- Bowel Training and Pelvic Floor Therapy: Regular Toileting
Hepatic Disorders (Liver Diseases)
- Includes hepatitis, cirrhosis, and liver cancer
Liver Anatomy and Function
- Metabolism of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, detoxification, or production of bile
- Storage of vitamins and minerals, regulation of blood clotting, and breakdown of red blood cells
Hepatitis
- Definition: Liver Inflammation
- Causes: Viral infections, alcohol consumption, autoimmune conditions, drug-induced, or fatty liver disease
- Symptoms: Fatigue, jaundice, abdominal pain, dark urine, pale stools, or nausea
- Types of Hepatitis: Hepatitis A/E fecal-oral, Hepatitis B/C blood borne, or Hepatitis D for those with HBV
- Management: Supportive care, antiviral medications, and vaccinations
Cirrhosis
- Definition: Chronic Liver Scarring
- Causes: Chronic hepatitis, alcoholic liver disease, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, or autoimmune hepatitis
- Symptoms: Jaundice, ascites, hepatomegaly, peripheral edema, spider angiomas, or esophageal varices
- Complications: Portal hypertension, hepatic encephalopathy, bleeding tendencies, or liver cancer
- Management: Low-sodium diet and diuretics, lactulose, Beta-blockers, or liver transplant
Fatty Liver Disease
- Definition: Steatosis
- Causes: Alcoholic fatty liver disease or non-alcoholic fatty liver disease
- Symptoms: Often asymptomatic, fatigue, RUQ discomfort, or elevated liver enzymes
- Diagnosis: Liver function tests, ultrasound showing fatty deposits, or biopsy
- Management: Weight loss and exercise, control of diabetes and cholesterol, or avoid alcohol
Hepatic Encephalopathy
- Liver failure leading to ammonia buildup, or GI bleeding
- Symptoms: Confusion, memory loss, tremors, personality changes, agitation, or coma
- Diagnosis: Elevated ammonia levels, or EEG
- Management: Lactulose to reduce ammonia, or Rifaximin (antibiotic) to decrease gut bacteria
Portal Hypertension
- Causes: Cirrhosis or liver tumors
- Symptoms: Splenomegaly, ascites, esophageal varices, or caput medusae
- Complications: Life-threatening variceal bleeding or hepatorenal syndrome
- Management: Beta-blockers to lower pressure or endoscopic variceal ligation
Liver Cancer
- Causes: Chronic HBV or HCV infection or cirrhosis
- Symptoms: Unexplained weight loss, RUQ pain and jaundice
- Treatment: Surgical resection or liver transplant
Wilson's Disease
- Autosomal recessive disorder leading to copper buildup
- Symptoms: Neurological, Kayser-Fleischer rings in eyes, or Liver dysfunction
- Diagnosis: Decreased serum ceruloplasmin levels or liver biopsy
- Management: Copper chelation therapy, low-copper diet or liver transplant
Hemochromatosis
- Genetic or frequent blood transfusions leading to an iron overload
- Symptoms: Fatigue, joint pain, bronze skin pigmentation, diabetes, or liver cirrhosis
- Diagnosis: Transferrin saturation, liver biopsy, or genetic testing
- Management: Phlebotomy or iron chelators
Liver Transplantation
- End-stage liver disease and/or liver tumor
- Post-Transplant Care includes the use of immunosuppressants and infection prevention techniques
Autoimmune Hepatitis
- Chronic inflammation of the liver due to overactive immune response or linked to other autoimmune diseases
- Fatigue, jaundice, elevated liver function
- Diagnose via biopsy and treat with corticosteroids
Hepatorenal Syndrome
- Severe cirrhosis leading to decreased kidney blood flow or Portal hypertension
- Oliguria will results as well as increased pressure on the liver to cause portal hypertension
- Treat with fluids and monitor the kidney function
Budd-Chiari Syndrome
- Blood clotting resulting in a tumor
- Liver biopsy, anticoagulant, diuretics, TIPs, or Liver transplant are treatment plans
Primary Biliary Cholangitis
- Destruction of bile ducts by autoimmune disorder
- Asymptomatic to fatigue, jaundice or elevated levels of livers
- Treat with ursodeoxycholic acid and monitor cirrhosis
Liver and Gallbladder diseases
- Liver Abscess and Cysts
Gilbert's Syndrome and Liver Abscess
- Gilbert's: Reduced bilirubin metabolism
- Treat symptoms or the liver infections
- High Fever, Jaundice and chills are symptoms
Liver Trauma and Cysts
- Trauma includes car accidents and serious injuries like gunshot
- Cysts: genetic and typically have no symptoms
Biliary Disorders (Gallbladder and Pancreatic Diseases)
- Anatomy of the Biliary System: Includes liver, gallbladder, bile ducts, or pancreas
- Functions of the Biliary System: Bile production, bile storage, fat digestion and absorption, or waste elimination
Cholelithiasis
- Excess cholesterol in bile, bile stasis, or high bilirubin levels
- Often asymptomatic, but can have biliary colic
- Elevated bilirubin and alkaline phosphate
Cholangitis
- Gallstones, tumors strictures or Bacterial infection
- Charcot's and Reynolds triad
- Evaluate liver function with prompt antibiotic assistance
Pancreatitis
- Caused by Gallstones or elevated cholesterol levels
- Epigastric pain that radiates
- Provide pancreatic enzyme as replacement and dietary support
Gallbladder and Biliary Issues
- Cancer, Biliary Atresia or Hydrops can occur or show no to mild symptoms
- Biopsy will be required, as will antibiotics and pain meds
Biliary and Insulin Conditions
- Sphincter dysfunction, Gallstones or Complications from diabetes
- HIDA scans or HGH will be used to help detect conditions
DM (Diabetes Mellitus)
- Chronic and metabolic issues, high blood sugar and too little insulin
- Type-1 genetic issues, or Type-II from lifestyle/diet
- A1CV or other means of measuring the amount of insulin for control via diet and medicine
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