How do you assess and manage patients with gastrointestinal disorders related to intestinal dysmotility?

Sample interview questions: How do you assess and manage patients with gastrointestinal disorders related to intestinal dysmotility?

Sample answer:

Assessment of Patients with Gastrointestinal Disorders Related to Intestinal Dysmotility:

1. History-Taking:
2. Collect detailed information about the patient’s symptoms, including their onset, duration, frequency, and severity.
3. Inquire about the nature of bowel movements (diarrhea, constipation, or alternating), pain localization, and any associated symptoms (abdominal pain, bloating, nausea, vomiting, gas, fecal incontinence).

4. Ask about dietary habits, medications, and lifestyle factors that may contribute to dysmotility.

5. Physical Exam:

6. Assess for abdominal tenderness, distension, or masses.
7. Evaluate bowel sounds for presence, frequency, and character.

8. Perform a rectal examination to detect abnormalities in sphincter tone or hemorrhoids.

9. Laboratory Tests:

10. Complete blood count to assess for anemia, leukocytosis, or electrolyte imbalances.
11. Stool analysis to detect blood, parasites, or other infectious agents.
12. Serum electrolytes to assess for dehydration or electrolyte imbalances.

13. Thyroid function tests to rule out hypothyroidism.

14. Imaging Studies:

15. Abdominal X-ray to evaluate for intestinal gas patterns and possible obstructions.

16. Computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to evaluate the structure of the intestinal tract and identify any abnormalities.

17. Endoscopic Procedures:

18. Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) to visualize the upper gastrointestinal tract and detect abnormalities in the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum.
19. Colonoscopy to visualize the colon and detect abnormalities such as polyps, tumors, or diverticula.

Management of Patients with Gastrointestinal Disorders Related to Intestinal Dysmotility: Read full answer