Endoscopic ultrasound is an important advancement in the field of gastroenterology and one in which the nurse or assistant plays an important role. Endoscopic ultrasound is an imaging technique used to assess and stage gastrointestinal malignancies including esophageal, gastric, biliary, pancreatic, and colonic. Along with diagnostic endoscopic ultrasound, interventional endoscopic ultrasound is also an important tool.

Endoscopic ultrasound is used for celiac plexus neurolysis to help alleviate pain associated with chronic pancreatitis or pancreatic cancer; endoscopic mucosal resection for removal of early T1 malignancies; fine needle aspiration ultrasound-guided needle aspiration biopsies of tumors, and pancreatic pseudocyst drainage.

There are currently several different types of endoscopic ultrasound scopes, processors, and probes on the market, as well as several different needles used for therapeutic endoscopic ultrasound. As this continues to be an evolving area of endoscopy, we feel that in order for nurses and assistants to remain current and well versed in all aspects of endoscopic ultrasound, it is important to provide a forum to inform and update gastrointestinal nurses and assistants.

Our proposed optional course is targeted toward those with basic and an intermediate level of experience in EUS. Endoscopic ultrasound hands-on demonstration, including practice with ultrasonography needles, along with continual interaction will provide the attendees an opportunity to learn about endoscopic ultrasound procedures.

Section Description

We are pleased to present the Abstracts from the SGNA's 32nd Annual Course: Passion for GI Nursing: Pass It On!! The diversity of these topics certainly reflects the richness and breadth of our specialty. In keeping with the tradition of the Annual Course, we hope the following abstracts will encourage discussions for improving nursing practice and patient care outcomes.