Which cause of gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding is always associated with the upper GI tract?
Hemorrhoids
Esophagogastric varices
Neoplasms
Diverticulosis - Answers Esophagogastric varices
The lower esophagus and upper stomach are located above the ligament of Treitz; therefore,
esophagogastric varices is a cause of bleeding in the upper GI tract.
Which condition is the leading cause of upper gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding?
Esophagitis
Gastritis
Peptic ulcer disease
Gastroenteritis - Answers Peptic ulcer disease
Peptic ulcer disease is the leading cause of upper GI bleeding.
Which factor is contributory to stress-related mucosal disease (SRMD)? Select all that apply. One, some,
or all responses may be correct.
Increased acid production
Decreased blood flow
Mechanical ventilation
Major surgery
Extensive burns - Answers Increased acid production
Increased acid production erodes the mucosa more readily and contributes to SRMD.
, Decreased blood flow
Ischemic mucosa is highly susceptible to deterioration and therefore contributes to SRMD.
Mechanical ventilation
Patients at risk for SRMD include those who are mechanically ventilated.
Major surgery
Patients who have undergone major surgery are at risk for SRMD.
Extensive burns
Patients who have extensive burn injuries are at risk for SRMD.
Which factor is most important when assessing the severity of a gastrointestinal (GI) hemorrhage?
Amount of blood loss
Presence of hematochezia
Presence of hematemesis
Cool extremities - Answers Amount of blood loss
The amount of blood loss is directly associated with the severity of the patient's condition, which can
range from minor volume depletion to hypovolemic shock.
Which intervention follows the control of gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding?
Prevention of acid overproduction
Identification of the cause of hemorrhage
Restoration of adequate blood volume
Establishment of hemodynamic monitoring - Answers Restoration of adequate blood volume
Ensuring adequate blood supply will prevent shock and other negative outcomes of GI hemorrhage.