gastrointestinal disorders
Overview of Gastrointestinal Bleeding
Key Points
Rectal bleeding may result from upper or lower GI bleeding. Orthostatic changes in vital signs are unreliable markers for serious bleeding. Hematemesis, hematochezia, or melena should be considered an emergency and managed in an intensive care unit or other monitored setting. IV fluid resuscitation should begin immediately and may require transfusion with blood products. About 80% of patients stop bleeding spontaneously; various endoscopic techniques are usually the first choice for the remainder. 