How do you assess and manage patients with gastrointestinal disorders related to malabsorption of vitamins and minerals?

Sample interview questions: How do you assess and manage patients with gastrointestinal disorders related to malabsorption of vitamins and minerals?

Sample answer:

1. Develop a Comprehensive Patient History:

2. Gather information about the patient’s diet, including their intake of fruits, vegetables, and fortified foods.

3. Inquire about any recent travel, as certain geographic regions have higher rates of specific nutrient deficiencies.
4. Review the patient’s past medical history, including any prior surgeries, infections, or chronic conditions that may impair absorption.

5. Ask about any medications or supplements the patient is taking, as some can interfere with nutrient absorption.

6. Perform a Physical Examination:

7. Inspect the patient’s skin, hair, and nails for signs of nutrient deficiencies, such as pallor, dry skin, brittle hair, or spoon-shaped nails.

8. Examine the patient’s abdomen for any visible distension, tenderness, or masses.

9. Auscultate the abdomen for bowel sounds and any abnormal noises, such as borborygmi or tinkling sounds.

10. Order Laboratory Tests:

11. Complete blood count (CBC) to evaluate for anemia or other hematologic abnormalities.

12. Serum electrolytes, including sodium, potassium, chloride, and bicarbonate, to detect imbalances related to malabsorption.
13. Iron studies, including serum iron, ferritin, and transferrin, to assess for iron deficiency anemia.
14. Vitamin B12 and folate levels to evaluate for deficiencies.
15. Vitamin D levels to determine if the patient is deficient.

16. Other tests may be indicated based on the patient’s symptoms and suspected nutrient deficiency, such as serum calcium, magnesium, or zinc levels.

17. Imaging Studies:

18. Abdominal X-ray or ultrasound to visualize the gastrointestinal tract and identify any structural abnormalities that may contribute to malabsorption.

19. Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy or colonoscopy to evaluate the mucosal lining of the gastrointestinal tract and identify any lesions, ulcers, or other abnormalities.

    … Read full answer

    Source: https://hireabo.com/job/2_0_26/Gastroenterology%20Nurse