Page 57 - Community pharmcy practice E-book 2025

01/11/2025, 22:08 Medication Errors & Constipation Management

Treatment Goals

Relieve constipation & reestablish normal bowel function
Establish dietary & exercise habits
Promote safe & effective use of laxatives (avoid overuse)

Cases of Referral (Red Flags)

Change in bowel habit of 2 weeks or longer
Presence of abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting (appendicitis)
Blood in stools
Abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, or marked cramping or distention may
indicate fecal impaction or bowel obstruction
Failure of OTC medication (>7 days)
Serious underlying medical condition (e.g., Parkinson's disease, diabetes)
Unexplained weight loss

Important Steps to Do

1. Asking about the duration of sickness
2. History examination, frequency and difficulty of defecation
3. Physical examination
4. Asking about dietary habits
5. Asking about severe symptoms (red flag)
6. Checking the causes of referrals

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