Stomach & Intestines (Gastrointestinal)

The gastrointestinal (GI) system plays a central role in digestion, nutrient absorption, and waste elimination—but when something goes wrong, it can trigger everything from mild discomfort to life-threatening emergencies.

Common Issues & What To Do

Gastroenteritis (Stomach Flu)

This is a stomach and intestine infection that causes vomiting, diarrhea, fever, and belly pain. It’s usually from a virus or bad food.

Steps:

  1. Check the patient’s vitals.
  2. Start fluids (IV banana bag or oral rehydration like Gatorade).
  3. Give anti-nausea meds to help stop vomiting.
  4. Track how much they drink and go to the bathroom.
  5. Teach the patient to wash their hands and avoid spreading germs.
  6. If needed, collect a stool sample for testing.
  7. If it’s bacterial, give antibiotics.

GERD (Heartburn/Acid Reflux)

This happens when stomach acid comes back up into the throat. It can feel like burning in the chest, sour taste, or trouble swallowing.

Steps:

  1. Check vitals.
  2. Ask about their symptoms:
    • How often they get heartburn, chest pain, or trouble swallowing.
  3. Check for warning signs:
    • Difficulty swallowing, weight loss, or blood in stool.
  4. Give medication for relief:
    • Antacids (like Tums or Milk of Magnesia)
    • Acid blockers (like Ranitidine or Omeprazole)
  5. Give lifestyle advice:
    • Don’t smoke
    • Raise the head of the bed
    • Don’t lie down after eating

Peptic Ulcers (Stomach Sores)

Painful sores in the stomach or intestines. Feels like burning or sharp stomach pain, especially when hungry.

Steps:

  1. Check vitals and ask about symptoms:
    • Pain timing, nausea, bloating, or vomiting
  2. Start an IV if vomiting or dehydrated.
  3. Give antacids or acid blockers.
  4. If bacterial (like H. pylori), give antibiotics.
  5. Advise soft diet and avoid spicy foods, alcohol, and NSAIDs.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

A long-term gut issue that causes belly cramps, gas, diarrhea, or constipation. Usually stress- or diet-related.

Steps:

  1. Ask about bowel habits and symptoms.
  2. Check vitals to rule out anything urgent.
  3. Recommend dietary changes:
    • High fiber for constipation
    • Avoid trigger foods (dairy, spicy, caffeine)
  4. Offer medication:
    • Antispasmodics or anti-diarrheal as needed
  5. Recommend stress reduction.

Diverticulitis

Infection of small pouches in the colon. Causes sharp lower-left belly pain, fever, nausea, and poop changes.

Steps:

  1. Check vitals.
  2. Feel the belly gently for tenderness.
  3. Start IV fluids.
  4. Give antibiotics to treat infection.
  5. Put patient on a clear liquid diet until symptoms improve.
  6. Admit if severe, otherwise send home with follow-up instructions.