GI Study Guide 2026
Everything you need to pass the GI exam in one place: the exam format, every topic to study, real practice questions with explanations, flashcards, and full-length practice tests. Free, no sign-up needed.
📋 GI Exam Format at a Glance
📚 GI Topics to Study (69)
✍️ Sample GI Questions & Answers
1. A patient presents with dysphagia after esophageal variceal band ligation. The most likely cause is:
Post-banding ulcers develop at band placement sites within 5–7 days and can cause dysphagia; repeated sessions increase stricture risk.
2. During colonoscopy, a 15 mm flat (Paris IIa) polyp in the ascending colon is identified. The most appropriate management is:
Flat lesions 10–20 mm are optimally managed with EMR, which uses submucosal injection to lift the lesion for safe en bloc or piecemeal removal.
3. What is the purpose of a Safety Data Sheet (SDS) in Gastrointestinal operations?
Safety Data Sheets provide detailed information about chemical hazards, safe handling procedures, and emergency measures.
4. What is the primary concern when using NSAIDs in patients with a history of peptic ulcer disease?
NSAIDs inhibit COX enzymes, reducing prostaglandin production that normally protects the gastric mucosa, increasing the risk of ulcers and GI bleeding.
5. What is the correct disinfection standard for flexible endoscopes used between patients?
Flexible endoscopes require high-level disinfection using approved chemical disinfectants such as glutaraldehyde or ortho-phthalaldehyde (OPA), following SGNA and manufacturer reprocessing guidelines to prevent infection transmission.
6. A patient presents with sudden severe abdominal pain, rigid abdomen, and absent bowel sounds. Which condition should be suspected first?
A rigid (board-like) abdomen with absent bowel sounds and sudden severe pain are classic signs of peritonitis from a perforated peptic ulcer.