Gastrointestinal Series A.

Upper GI Series An upper gastrointestinal (GI) series is an X-ray exam done to look at the esophagus, stomach, and the uppermost part of the small intestine (the duodenum). The upper GI series can show a blockage, abnormal growth, ulcer, or a problem with the way an organ is working. Upper GI series help detect the ff.: ulcers abnormal growths scars or stricturesnarrowing of the GI tract hiatal hernia diverticulabulges in the wall of the esophagus or intestine esophageal varicesenlarged veins in the esophagus

Variations of Upper GI series 1. Double contrast studies Involves administration of a thick barium suspension to outline the stomach and esophageal wall Has the advantage of showing the esophagus and the stomach in finer detail

2. Enteroclysis A very detailed, double contrast study of the entire small intestine that involves the continuous infusion through a duodenal tube of 500 to 1000 ml of a thin barium sulfate suspension

Preprocedure Care The client cannot have food or fluids for 6 to 8 hours before the test Instruct the client about the procedure and about the barium preparation Barium has a thick consistency and a chalky taste. It may be necessary to drink up to 16 ounces for the procedure

Postprocedure Care A laxative is usually given to help expel the barium and to prevent a fecal impaction.

Assess the abdomen for distention, and observe the stool to determine whether the barium has been eliminated Initially, the stool is white, but it should return to its normal brown color within 72 hours A distended abdomen and constipation may indicate a barium impaction Clients with ostomies should be closely monitored for retained barium. Instruct the client to contact the physician immediately if constipation and abdominal distention occur.

Modified Barium Swallow Also known as videofluoroscopy is performed to assess swallowing and the risk of aspiration

Preparation Clients are maintained on NPO status before the procedure Maintain hydration with IV fluids if the client is expected to remain NPO for and extended period After the procedure, nothing should be ingested by mouth until the speech therapist, radiologist, physician has evaluated the test results. If diet alterations are required, consult a registered dietitian, speech therapist, or both to collaboratively develop an appropriate and adequate nutrition plan.

B. Lower GI Series Is used to detect the presence of polyps, tumors and other lesions of the large intestine. It is also used to demonstrate any abnormal anatomy or malfunction of the bowel. Procedure takes 15-30 mins. Indications History of altered bowel habits Lower abdominal pain Passage of blood, mucus or pus in stools

Preprocedure Care clear liquid diet for 2 days before the test to reduce feces volume client usually receives a potent laxative and an oral liquid preparation for cleaning the bowel the day before the test and has nothing by mouth after midnight. The morning of the examination, a suppository or cleansing enema may be administered.

If the client has active bleeding or an ileostomy, different bowel preparations may be needed If ultrasonography, an abdominal scan, or colonoscopy is also indicated, it should be performed first because barium interferes with these tests

Postprocedure Care Risks Mild constipation from the barium liquid is the most common complication Rarely, barium liquid causes bowel obstruction Some barium liquids contain flavorings, which may also cause an allergic reaction. People who have recently undergone other x-ray tests should talk with their doctor about potential risks. laxative or cleansing enema is often given after the test to empty the large bowel Stools are white for 24 to 72 hours after the examination Encourage the client to increase liquid intake to prevent fecal impaction. Instruct the client to report any pain, bloating, absence of stool, or bleeding.

Sources: Black, et al.

Gastrointestinal Series

Prepared By: A2 Aileen Alaban Arabela Avancena Ryane Bogabong Loui Borromeo Bagani Cabrera Gladys Calinislinisan Errol Magpiong Shanna Marie Melodia Mary Wendy Palma Michelle Ramos Jore Roco Andelyn Trinidad