Red flags in the gut: How to identify and manage them

An engaging and practical GP Education Session covering GI presentations in primary care and surgical emergencies in the community.

Learning outcomes:

• Identify and assess common gastrointestinal presentations in general practice — including change in bowel habit, rectal bleeding, abdominal pain, iron deficiency anaemia and bloating — and determine when investigation or conservative management is appropriate.
• Recognise clinical features suggestive of significant pathology, including early-onset colorectal cancer and inflammatory bowel disease, and apply appropriate referral pathways to facilitate timely specialist care.
• Recognise and differentiate elective versus emergency surgical referrals in the community setting, including appropriate timing for GP involvement.
• Identify red flags in common surgical conditions (perianal tears, hernias, gallstones) that require urgent assessment or referral.