2. Gastrointestinal System Also referred to as the digestive system. Has three main functions which are to digest food, absorb nutrients and eliminate waste. The GI system is composed of many parts including the teeth, stomach, intestines and the liver.
3. The gastrointestinal system is very important to sustaining life. Problems with the GI system can be life threatening. Here are a few examples.
4. Cachexia Cachexia is the loss of weight, muscle atrophy, fatigue and weakness in a person as a result of factors other than diet or one’s intent. It is often not the disease it self but a sign of a bigger underlying problem. Persons with Aids, tuberculosis, and who have congestive heart failure often exhibits signs of cachexia.
5. Cachexia cont. Cachexia can also been seen in the late stages of cancer. This condition is very serious can contribute to death.
6. Lavage Also known as gastric lavage or stomach pumping. Lavage is the act of cleaning out the stomach by using a nasogastric tube. This process is done to counteract poisonings, an overdosing, or overconsumption of alcohol. It can be life saving.
7. Serum bilirubin Serum Bilirubin is blood test to check the amount of bile in the bloodstream. Also known as bile, bile is produced by the liver. This fluid helps in the digestion of lipids in the small intestines. Increased levels of bilirubin in the blood indicate liver disease.
8. Lavage cont Lavage is performed by inserting a nasogastric tube into the stomach. Then small amounts of liquid, often saline, is introduced into the stomach then removed, This process is repeated until the contents of the stomach come back clear of the foreign substance. The biggest risk with lavage is the patient aspirating during.
9. Extraction Extraction is the removing of a tooth. There are two types of extraction, simple and surgical. Simple extraction is when the tooth is pulled using forceps and local anesthesia. It can be performed on teeth that are above the gum line. Surgical extraction is removing the tooth by the use of an incision and general anesthesia. These are usually done on teeth that are below the gum line.
10. Extraction cont. Extractions are usually required for teeth that are decayed, infected or on wisdom teeth. Possible complications that can arise from an extraction are infections, bleeding and nerve damage.
