Sample interview questions: How do you handle patients with suspected or diagnosed gastrointestinal perforations requiring surgical intervention?
Sample answer:
- Initial Assessment:
- History: Conduct a comprehensive history to gather information about the patient’s symptoms, including onset, location, severity, and any aggravating or relieving factors. Additionally, inquire about any associated symptoms, such as fever, chills, nausea, vomiting, or abdominal distension.
- Physical Examination: Perform a thorough physical examination, focusing on the abdomen. Assess for abdominal pain, tenderness, distension, masses, or hernias. Auscultate bowel sounds and check for signs of peritonitis, such as guarding or rebound tenderness.
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Diagnostic Tests: Order appropriate diagnostic tests to confirm the diagnosis and assess the extent of the perforation. This may include:
- Abdominal X-ray
- Abdominal CT scan
- Contrast studies
- Paracentesis
- Laparoscopy
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Patient Stabilization:
- Resuscitation: If the patient is unstable, initiate resuscitation measures, including fluid resuscitation, oxygen therapy, and antibiotics.
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Pain Management: Administer appropriate pain medication to relieve the patient’s discomfort.
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Surgical Consultation:
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Consult with a surgeon as soon as possible to discuss the need for surgical intervention. The type of surgery will depend on the location and extent of the perforation.
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Source: https://hireabo.com/job/2_0_26/Gastroenterology%20Nurse