Unstable lower gastrointestinal bleeding is a high-acuity emergency that can rapidly progress to hemorrhagic shock, massive transfusion, and death if not recognized and managed appropriately. In this episode, we review the resuscitation, diagnostic evaluation, and definitive management of unstable lower GI bleeding from an emergency medicine and critical care perspective. Topics covered include recognition of hemorrhagic shock, initial stabilization, blood product resuscitation, massive transfusion protocols, diagnostic testing, CT angiography, interventional radiology, endoscopy, surgical consultation, and strategies for hemorrhage control. We also discuss common causes of severe lower gastrointestinal bleeding, including diverticular bleeding, angiodysplasia, ischemic colitis, and other life-threatening sources of hematochezia. Whether you are a medical student, resident, fellow, advanced practice provider, nurse, respiratory therapist, hospitalist, emergency physician, gastroenterologist, surgeon, or intensivist, this episode provides a practical framework for approaching the unstable patient with lower GI bleeding. ▶️ Watch the full video version: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_nJNBBL2Kzs 🌐 Explore WhiteBoard Medicine: https://www.whiteboardmedicine.com 📚 Looking for more emergency medicine and critical care education? The WhiteBoard Medicine Patreon includes: • Comprehensive Study Guides • Bedside One-Pagers • Clinical Reviews • Mini-Courses • Practice Questions • Ad-Free Videos • Structured Learning Collections Join here: https://www.patreon.com/WhiteBoardMedicine Educational Disclaimer: This podcast is intended for educational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for clinical judgment, institutional protocols, specialist consultation, or individualized patient care.

Ask this episode

“What did the council decide on item 42?” — answered with the speaker and the moment.

Transcript

Related