ABSTRACT
Acute gastrointestinal (GI) haemorrhage is bleeding from the GI tract, which may occur at any point in the GI tract and is classified as originating from an upper GI or lower GI source. It may be an occult or incidental finding, or it may present with massive blood loss and haemodynamic instability. The timing of oesophagogastroduodenoscopy is dependent on the clinical status of the patient. Emergency endoscopy is performed in massive bleeds, in patients with known variceal bleeds, and in those who continue to bleed or re-bleed endoscopy. When booking an endoscopy, always document the patient's Rockall score, their haemodynamic status, their most recent haemoglobin, platelets and coagulation screen, any use of anticoagulant/antiplatelet drugs and any comorbidity. Patients on insulin should commence a sliding scale prior to endoscopy. Lower GI haemorrhage is bleeding distal to the ligament of Treitz. It includes bleeding from both the small bowel and the colon.
