Video capsule endoscopy (VCE) now plays an important role in the gastroenterology suite. VCE was given FDA approval as an "adjunct" tool in 2001. Barely two years later, the "adjunct" was dropped making VCE the gold standard for diagnosing diseases of the small bowel. Over 1 million small bowel exams are preformed in the U.S. per year. VCE allows visualization of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract from the esophagus to the terminal ileum. VCE focuses on three portions of the small bowel not readily accessible by traditional endoscopy. Other advantages are that VCE is noninvasive, visualizes items 5x smaller than that of a small bowel follow-through radiologic procedure, and is cost effective. This presentation is designed to give the GI nurse and associate an overview of VCE. Included will be indications, patient preparations, procedures, and complications. The presentation will conclude with video clips of various abnormal findings.

Section Description

We are pleased to present the abstracts from SGNA's 33rd Annual Course, SGNA on a Mission: Exceeding Expectations. 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.