S1 E27 Case Study Series #8: Code GI Bleed - Navigating Anticoagulation, Aneurysms, and Aging

Imagine you're on call, and EMS rolls in an 88-year-old nursing home resident with bright red rectal bleeding. He’s on dual anticoagulation, has a history of an aortic aneurysm repair, and the CT angiogram lights up a suspicious bleed in the sigmoid colon. Now you’re juggling active bleeding, bleeding risks, thrombotic history, and meds you can’t just stop without a team huddle. This case isn’t just about treating the bleed—it’s about managing the intersection of geriatrics, cardiology, GI, and pharmacology under pressure. Key topics covered include:Differential Diagnosis of Lower GI Bleeds in Older AdultsAnticoagulation Dilemma: Plavix & Xarelto in a Bleeding PatientLab Trends & Electrolyte FlagsInterdisciplinary Decision-MakingGeriatric-Specific Considerations