What is a common indication for performing a flexible endoscopy?

What is a common indication for performing a flexible endoscopy?

• A. Routine health checkup
• B. Suspected gastrointestinal bleeding
• C. Cardiac arrest
• D. Musculoskeletal pain

Answer: (B)

Performing a flexible endoscopy is often indicated when there is a suspicion of gastrointestinal bleeding. This procedure allows clinicians to visualize the interior of the gastrointestinal tract, identify the source of bleeding, and potentially treat it at the same time. Common causes for suspected GI bleeding may include ulcers, tumors, or vascular malformations, and swift intervention can be critical for patient outcomes. Other choices, while relevant in their contexts, are not appropriate indications for flexible endoscopy. Routine health checkups typically do not require this invasive procedure, as they focus on general wellness rather than specific diagnostic needs. Cardiac arrest is an emergency that demands immediate cardiopulmonary resuscitation and advanced cardiac life support rather than endoscopic evaluation. Musculoskeletal pain relates to the bones and joints, which falls outside the scope of gastrointestinal examination. Thus, suspected gastrointestinal bleeding stands out as a key reason to utilize flexible endoscopy in clinical practice.

Performing a flexible endoscopy is often indicated when there is a suspicion of gastrointestinal bleeding. This procedure allows clinicians to visualize the interior of the gastrointestinal tract, identify the source of bleeding, and potentially treat it at the same time. Common causes for suspected GI bleeding may include ulcers, tumors, or vascular malformations, and swift intervention can be critical for patient outcomes.

Other choices, while relevant in their contexts, are not appropriate indications for flexible endoscopy. Routine health checkups typically do not require this invasive procedure, as they focus on general wellness rather than specific diagnostic needs. Cardiac arrest is an emergency that demands immediate cardiopulmonary resuscitation and advanced cardiac life support rather than endoscopic evaluation. Musculoskeletal pain relates to the bones and joints, which falls outside the scope of gastrointestinal examination. Thus, suspected gastrointestinal bleeding stands out as a key reason to utilize flexible endoscopy in clinical practice.