Investigations

Clinical diagnosis is largely based on the patient’s history, however investigations are useful to risk assess and guide management.

Investigations:

• Venous Blood gas can help to assess haemoglobin level quickly but do not rely solely on this – there is a lag period between blood loss and Hb drop!
• Urea and electrolytes (urea will be raised after a significant volume bleed)
• Full blood count
• Coagulation screen (derangement of clotting in liver diseases)
• Liver function tests (identifying liver disease)
• Cross match (type specific or full cross match depending on urgency)
• Chest x-ray, 12-lead ECG
• Little role for abdominal x-ray- CT abdomen may be of more benefit if concern about diverticular bleed, or small bowel obstruction