Structure & Function
What does the pancreas produce to help digestion?
Insulin
What should infants be fed at first to monitor food allergies?
What physician diagnoses and treats disorders of the digestive system?
Gastroenterologist
Where should the MA discard the testing card after performing fecal occult blood testing?
A biohazardous waste container
What term describes how the body uses food to maintain health?
Nutrition
What does the liver produce to break down dietary fat and secrete enzymes that aid digestion?
Bile
What is meconium made up of?
Swallowed amniotic fluid.
What is the most common symptom of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)?
Heartburn
What information should the MA obtain during patient intake?
Information about a patient's bowel habits and changes.
What vitamin is necessary for red blood cells to carry oxygen?
Iron
Where does most of the chyme's water absorption take place?
The large intestine
When do babies secrete the proper enzymes to digest food other than breast milk or formula?
6 months old
What can nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea result from?
Bacterial and viral infections, microorganisms in food and water, irritating foods, and medications.
What can stool be tested for?
Occult (hidden) blood, Pathogens, Fat, or Worms/amoebas.
When should an ostomy pouch be changed?
When it is 1/3 full
About how long is the small intestine?
About 20 feet long
What age-related change affects chewing/swallowing?
Decreased saliva production
Inguinal hernias are most common in?
Men
What 3 medications are usually limited before and during guaiac testing?
Aspirin, ibuprofen, and Vitamin C supplements
What diet is described for patients with heart disease or who often have heart attacks?
Lowfat Diet
What are the most numerous and strongest teeth?
The Molars
When does the digestive system reach maturity?
In late adolescence
What can diverticular disease cause?
Peritonitis
What other types of tests can be used to diagnose conditions of the Gastrointestinal System?
Imaging, Barium studies, Colonoscopy
What are the 6 basic nutrients for healthy growth and development?
Water, Carbohydrates, Protein, Fats, Vitamins, and Minerals