Blood in the stool indicating large intestine bleeding is known as?

Study for the VTNE Critical Care Test. Use multiple choice questions with hints and explanations to prepare effectively. Get exam ready today!

Hematochezia refers specifically to the passage of fresh blood through the anus, usually in or with stools, indicating that the source of the bleeding is likely from the lower gastrointestinal tract, or more specifically, the large intestine. This condition often suggests active bleeding and is typically associated with conditions such as diverticulosis, inflammatory bowel disease, or colorectal tumors.

In contrast, hematuria pertains to the presence of blood in urine, melena describes dark, tarry stools resulting from the digestion of blood that is usually from an upper gastrointestinal source, and diarrhea refers to an increased frequency of bowel movements that can be loose or watery, but does not specifically indicate bleeding. Thus, hematochezia is the appropriate term for fresh blood in the stool due to large intestine bleeding.

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