GIT

Question 1

Diagnostics for abdominal pain:

Answer 1

• Serum tests:
• Haemoglobin
• white cell count
• ESR (erythrocyte sedimentation rate)
• CRP
• liver function test
• amylase
• lipase
• beta-HCG
• Urine testing:
• pregnancy
• blood
• white cells
• bile pigments
• ketones
• Faecal analysis for blood
• radiological: X-ray, ultrasound, barium enema, CT, MRI

Question 2

Sodium & potassium

Answer 2

Na - mainly extracellular
K - mainly intracellular
Control electrical potential across cell membranes
Assist in fluid regulation

Question 3

Calcium

Answer 3

• Required for blood coagulation, muscle contraction, nerve excitation
• found in dairy, vegetables
• deficiency = tetany, osteoporosis & rickets
• excess leads to kidney stones

Question 4

GIT objective assessment

Answer 4

1. Inspection: mouth, dentures, visible peristalsis, skin changes/scars, symmetry of abdomen, drains, catheters, PEGs, stoma, height, weight, waist circumference
2. Auscultation: bowel sounds in all 4 quadrants (5-30/min)
3. Palpation: tender areas last,
4. Inspection & palpation of anal & perianal area
5. Faeces inspection: Bristol stool chart, colour