The Pulse | Wednesday, August 15, 2018

The Evolution of Gastroenterology

Believe it or not, the first-known GI research was conducted in 400 BC by Hippocrates himself. While his methods were much simpler (and significantly less sterile) it’s incredible that people have been exploring and innovating gastroenterology wellness for thousands of years. In the 20th century alone, GI nurses and associates have contributed leaps and bounds in the profession—thanks, in part, to the wonderful people of SGNA.

As technology progresses, so do the processes of gastroenterological nurses. Even in the past decade, significant changes to the field have dramatically increased patient care.

SGNA Director Nancy Denton says a major focus in the past decade has been infection prevention. She says it’s “probably the single biggest area that has changed in the field of gastroenterology from my perspective in the last three to five years.” Other’s echo Denton’s observations. Kelly Osborne, MSN APRN CNS-BC CGRN, is a clinical nurse specialist at Duke University Health System. While the field has, undoubtedly, seen a dramatic change since 400 BC, the recent advances in the past few years are something impressive all on their own.

“Nurses are at the forefront of GI program development, patient telehealth management, electronic health record processes, teaching peers in advanced techniques and improvements in endoscope management,” she says.