title: The use of endoscopic retrograde cholangio pancreatography.
abstract: Endoscopic retrograde cholangio pancreatography (ERCP) combines endoscopic and radiographic techniques and is carried out to allow detailed examination of the bile ducts, pancreatic duct and gallbladder. It can serve as a diagnostic or therapeutic tool. This article provides an update on the procedure as well as indications and contraindications. The nurse's role in caring for patients undergoing ERCP--which includes preparing them for the procedure, observing them post-ERCP and providing health education for discharge and beyond--is also covered.
authors.affiliation: Department of Colorectal Surgery, St Thomas' Hospital, London.
authors.forename: Fiona
authors.initials: F
authors.lastname: Hibberts
authors.forename: Elizabeth
authors.initials: E
authors.lastname: Barnes
mesh_terms: D001649:Bile Duct Diseases / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000451:nursing*; D002760:Cholangiopancreatography, Endoscopic Retrograde / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000379:methods / Q000451:nursing*; D005705:Gallbladder Diseases / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000451:nursing*; D006801:Humans