These red flags may signal signs and symptoms when you suspect a GI problem.
Abnormal bowel sounds.
If your patient's condition is unstable, don't delay other assessments by auscultating her abdomen. Abdominal pain without palpation. If she's an adult with pain in her upper abdomen, obtain a 12-lead ECG to rule out a cardiac problem. Abdominal pain with palpation. Gently press your fingertips about 1 cm into each quadrant of her abdomen.