Page 71 - Community pharmcy practice E-book 2025

02/11/2025, 00:10 Otic & Ophthalmic Disorders | Dermatological Disorders

Emollient use should be avoided if nausea and vomiting, symptoms of appendicitis or

undetermined abdominal pain exist

When to Refer (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) The patient has
unexplained weight loss

Information Needed from Patient

Details of Bowel Habit

Frequency and nature of bowel actions now When was the
last bowel movement?

What is the usual bowel habit? When did the
problem start?

Is there a previous history?

Associated Symptoms

Abdominal pain/discomfort/bloating/distension Nausea and
vomiting

Blood in the stool

Diet and Medication

Any recent change in diet?
Is the usual diet rich in fibre? Present
medication
Any recent change in medication
Previous use of laxatives

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