Which of the following is a common symptom that might suggest a GI bleed?

Bright red blood in vomit, also known as hematemesis, is a significant symptom that can indicate a gastrointestinal (GI) bleed. When blood appears in vomit, it suggests that there is active bleeding in the upper gastrointestinal tract, which can include the esophagus, stomach, or the first part of the small intestine. The bright red color of the blood indicates that it is fresh and has not had time to be digested, further supporting the likelihood of an acute bleed.

While other symptoms may suggest various conditions, they are not as directly indicative of a GI bleed. For instance, severe abdominal compartment syndrome is a critical condition that involves high intra-abdominal pressure and generally does not present with hematemesis as a primary symptom. High fever typically indicates an infectious process rather than a bleeding one, and flank pain is often associated with renal issues or urinary tract problems rather than GI bleeding. Thus, bright red blood in vomit stands out as a key indicator of potential GI bleeding.