Episode 38: GI bleeding with Elliot Tapper

Critical Care Scenarios presents a podcast episode featuring Brandon Odo, Brian Bolling, and GI expert Dr. Elliot Tapper, who analyze a clinical case of a 67-year-old female with a history of hypertension, diabetes, GERD, hypothyroidism, and smoking, who is admitted to the ICU for a GI bleed. The discussion covers when to consult GI for bleeds, the Glasgow-Blatchford scale, initial management including IV access and vasoactive medications like octreotide, and the role of antibiotics in cirrhotic patients. They discuss the utility of upper endoscopy versus colonoscopy, the limited role of PPI drips, and imaging options like CTA. The conversation progresses to address emergency scenarios, such as massive bleeding, the importance of intubation, and when to consider surgical intervention or IR. The team also discusses balloon tamponade devices and repeat endoscopies.