I just need help!!!

Daytonite, BSN, RN · Jun 2, 2005

Untreated GI bleeding results in hypovolemic shock. Blood volume depletion results in decreased cardiac output (circulatory system) and a decresed systolic B/P and increase pulse rate. The peripheral arteries respond by constricting in order to shunt more blood to the core of the body and its vital organs. The kidneys are affected by the decreased blood flow which results in decreased urine output. If continued this leads to tubular necrosis and eventually renal failure (anuria or oliguria). Within the GI system the decreased blood flow to other GI organs can result in necrosis of the liver, infarctions within the bowel, and insufficiency in the mesenteric circulation. In the neuro system decreased blood flow to the brain results in anxiety, confusion, stupor, and finally coma. As the volume depletion of blood continues the blood supply feeding the heart itself (coronary arteries) is affected resulting in chest pain and angina. As this scenario progresses the patient usually experiences a myocardial infarction with associated pulmonary edema, heart failure and arrhythmias which, of course, will most likely be fatal resulting in death.

Metabolic acidosis occurs because of the build up of carbon dioxide that builds up in the tissues because it cannot be transported efficiently to the lungs where it can be expired. The metabolic acidosis will kill the patient as effectively as the resulting arrhythmias mentioned above.

As blood accumulates in the GI system itself it irritates the mucosa of the GI tract leading to increased peristalsis and diarrhea. Don't forget to mention the difference between the appearance of diarrhea of upper GI bleeding from diarrhea of lower GI bleeding.

You need to get yourself a good pathophysiology book so you can find these answers for yourself.

Reddy,RN · Jun 2, 2005

I have a patient in my clinical rotations tomorrow that has Gastrointestinal bleeding. I am suppose to write a paper and the first question i have to answer is what other systems in the body does this diagnosis affect and why??? Can anyone help me please!!???

http://rnweb.com/rnweb/article/articleDetail.jsp?id=150046

Although bleeding stops spontaneously in 80% - 90% of cases, patients presenting with sudden blood loss are at risk for decreased tissue perfusion and oxygen-carrying capability, which can affect every organ system in the body.5,6 That's why acute upper GI bleeding requires vigilant nursing assessment and intervention.

http://www.acg.gi.org/patients/gibleeding/index.asp#gibleed

What it is and what it isn't.

Good luck.

ashbug · Jun 3, 2005

Thank you a lot for helping me i appreciate it. It really was a lot of help.