Diagnosing IBS With Confidence

Thank you AbbVie for your support on this podcast episode.

In this episode, Kim Orleck, PA-C, and Kristina Skarbinski, NP, share a practical, guideline-based approach to diagnosing irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) with confidence. Drawing on years of clinical experience in GI, they highlight the importance of applying the Rome IV criteria and shifting from outdated diagnostic strategies to a positive diagnostic approach that relies on patient history, absence of alarm symptoms, and minimal lab testing. The conversation explores how to effectively rule out red flags like anemia, rectal bleeding, weight loss, and family history of IBD or colon cancer, while avoiding unnecessary colonoscopies in low-risk patients. Listeners will learn how to implement ACG and AGA guidelines, optimize limited diagnostic workups (CBC, CRP, celiac panel, fecal calprotectin), and build trust with patients through shared decision-making. Kim and Kristina also offer tips for advanced practice providers (APPs) on improving patient engagement—like using tools such as the Bristol Stool Scale and symptom tracking to increase diagnostic clarity and treatment adherence. Whether you're a new or experienced GI provider, this episode reinforces how to diagnose IBS with clinical confidence and reduce diagnostic overuse, while keeping patient education and communication at the center of care.

Access more resources at GHAPP.org or download the GHAPP ACE App to stay updated on evidence-based GI practice.

In addition to GHAPP's IBS educational resources, please see essentialsofibs.com for more.