Question

A. Lower Gastrointestinal Tract Trent Douglas has been having pain in his lower abdomen and occult blood in his stool. Dr. Hartman tells you to schedule him for a lower GI radiographic examination at Grant Hospital. In the space provided, explain how you would instruct Mr. Douglas to prepare for this examination. Include the patient preparation and the reason for each of the measures.

Answer 1

GI radiography examination is also referred to Barium X ray which is used to examine the upper and lower gastrointestinal tract.

The patient preparation for the procedure are

• Encourage the patient to follow a low fiber diet, this reduces the work load of the intestine
• Inform not to smoke or take alcohol because this will interact when the barium drink is given
• Patient has to be given a laxative ,the day before procedure in the night to encourage bowel emptying
• Patient will be required to drink barium solution ,which helps to identify the nature of organs when they pass through for diagnosis
• Patient has to be nil by mouth since night, as the procedure is to be done in empty stomach
• The procedure will last from 30 minutes to few hours until it reaches the intestine
• Patient should remove all sorts of metallic materials ,dentures before procedure,this is to avoid observing it in the x ray and making a wrong interpretation
• After procedure ,the stools may be chalky white or pale or light colored for about 1 to 3 days because of the barium solution
• Constipation is expected ,so increase plenty of liquids and fiber rich diet
• If there is no bowel move for more than 2 days, report to provider to get assessed for bowel movements
• Should report in case of vomiting, diarrhea, pain ,bleeding immediately because this can be the adverse reactions and has to be treated accordingly.