This annual celebration is a tribute to our hardworking community of GI nurses and associates, and we encourage you to spread positivity and generosity among your colleagues. The 12th Annual SGNA GI Nurses & Associates Week (GINAW) will be held March 15-21,2026.
Support our hard-working GI nurses and associates
A gastroenterology (gastrointestinal, or GI) nurse is an RN who specializes in illnesses and disorders related to the entire GI tract, ranging from acid reflux and Crohn's disease to Irritable Bowel Syndrome and cancers of the GI tract, including: the large and small intestine, gall bladder, esophagus and pancreas.
While formal certification is not required for many positions as a GI nurse, it is recommended. Obtaining certification in the GI specialty demonstrates a commitment to the field and holds the RN at a higher standard of care.
On a daily basis, GI nurses are typically engaged in the following tasks:
- Recording and reviewing patients’ medical history, symptoms and vital signs
- Educating patients about their conditions and explaining different treatment plans, options, risks and benefits
- Preparing patients for diagnosis or treatment, which includes collecting samples from diagnostic procedures such as x-rays, ultrasounds and barium enemas
- Providing nutrition advice, particularly for long-term care gastroenterology issues
- Administering medications, including preoperative medications, through injections or IVs and assisting physicians with the administration of anesthesia
- Providing postoperative care, which includes monitoring patients for post-operative complications
Please take a moment to recognize the GI nurse and associate superheroes on your team that deserve to have their accomplishments and efforts to care for patients celebrated.