Gastrointestinal System Disorders Q 92

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The nurse is caring for a client who has had a gastroscopy. Which of the following symptoms may indicate that the client is developing a complication related to the procedure? Select all that apply.

  

    A. The client complains of a sore throat.

    B. The client has a temperature of 100*F.

    C. The client appears drowsy following the procedure.

    D. The client complains of epigastric pain.

    E. The client experiences hematemesis.

    

Correct Answer: B, D, and E.

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Following a gastroscopy, the nurse should monitor the client for complications, which include perforation and the potential for aspiration. An elevated temperature, complaints of epigastric pain, or the vomiting of blood (hematemesis) are all indications of a possible perforation and should be reported promptly.

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Option A: A sore throat is a common occurrence following a gastroscopy. Before the procedure, the throat will be numbed with a local anesthetic spray. The local anesthetic spray is then given and a small plastic mouth guard placed in the mouth, to hold it open and protect the teeth.

Option B: During a gastroscopy, there’s a very small risk of the endoscope tearing the lining of the esophagus, stomach, or the first section of the small intestine (duodenum). This is known as perforation.

Option C: Clients are usually sedated to decrease anxiety and the nurse would anticipate that the client will be drowsy following the procedure. Possible complications that can occur include a reaction to the sedative, which can cause problems with breathing, heart rate, and blood pressure.

Option D: Signs of perforation can include neck, chest, or stomach pain, a high temperature of 38C or above, breathing difficulties, and neck, chest, or stomach pain. If the perforation isn’t severe, it can usually be left to heal by itself.

Option E: Sometimes, during a gastroscopy, the endoscope can accidentally damage a blood vessel, causing it to bleed. However, significant bleeding is very rare. Signs of bleeding can include vomiting and passing black or “tar-like” poo.

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