If the rate of bleeding is slow or if blood loss is chronuc, then a single line for transfusion is necessary. The first decision to make when evaluating a patient with bleeding is to determine whether it is an upper or lower source. Soemtimes clinical history and physicial exam are diagnostic, otherwise endoscopy is needed. In all patients you want to have an initial hemoglobin, protime, lytes BUN and glucose. Blood should be drawn for cross match.
Specific directions depend on the nature of the patient's condition.
This informatrion is provided for educational purposes. Only your physician can provide specific diagnoses and therapies. All rights reserved.