Gastroenterologists employ upper GI endoscopy as a medical treatment to identify and treat a variety of disorders affecting the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum in the upper digestive system. A long, thin, flexible tube known as an endoscope is inserted through the mouth and into the upper digestive tract during the surgery. However, due to worries about discomfort or suffering, many people are reluctant to have this surgery done. Do upper GI endoscopies hurt?
The answer to this query is a bit complicated because the degree of discomfort or pain felt during an upper GI endoscopy can differ depending on a number of variables, including the patient’s pain threshold, the type of anesthetic used, and the scope of the procedure. Most patients say they feel pressure or minor discomfort during the operation, but relatively few say they suffer significant pain.
The use of local anaesthetic to numb the throat is one factor that may contribute to the perception of pain during an upper GI endoscopy. Usually, the back of the throat is where the numbing chemical is sprayed, which may briefly make you gag and make you feel tight or under pressure. However, the anesthetic starts to work almost immediately, and most patients say they felt fairly at ease throughout the treatment.
It’s crucial to remember that an endoscopy can be more expensive than certain other medical examinations because it requires the use of specialized equipment and highly trained medical personnel. Patients may not be required to pay the full cost out of pocket because many insurance policies cover the cost of endoscopies.
My biggest trait as a nurse is empathy. I think that in order to give patients the kind of care they deserve, medical professionals need to be able to relate to and understand them personally. During medical procedures like an upper GI endoscopy, I can make patients feel more at ease and secure by paying attention to their worries and being compassionate toward them.
Care, compassion, competence, communication, courage, and commitment round up the six C’s of nursing. These ideals are a reflection of the fundamental traits that nurses ought to aspire to exhibit in their work. By putting these principles first, nurses can give their patients the best possible care and support, making sure they feel heard, respected, and well-cared for.
In conclusion, an upper GI endoscopy can be a painless or uncomfortable treatment, but it can also reveal important diagnostic information. In order to protect their comfort, patients who are worried about possible pain or discomfort can discuss their options with their healthcare provider and take appropriate measures, such as asking for a sedative or exploring pain management options. It is our responsibility as healthcare professionals to put patients’ comfort and wellbeing first, and to approach each procedure with empathy, expertise, and a commitment to giving the best care possible.