diarrhoea

Question 1

questions to ask?

Answer 1

nature of stool? to check the presence of blood or mucus in stool which would require referral

periodicity? recurrent diarrhoea needs to be referred

duration? to know if it is chronic and needs to be referred

the onset of symptoms? food consumption to know if anyone else ate the same food.

timing? does it happen first thing in the morning, might signify IBS

a recent change in diet? can cause changes in bowel function

recent travel? non-western country, high risk of infection. refer

signs of dehydration? decreased urine output, nausea, lightheadedness, decreased skin turgor, sunken eyes

drug history? might be drug induced

pmhx? greater than 6months in over 5oyrs suggest IBS, abdominal pain, bloating

Question 2

treatment?

Answer 2

oral rehydration solution in kids

loperamide. >12 years

Question 3

symptoms of diarrhoea

Answer 3

rapid onset 
nausea and vomiting before or during
abdominal cramping
flatulence
watery stool 
no blood present
complete resolution of symptoms should be observed in 2-4days

Question 4

when to refer?

Answer 4

longer than 2-3days in children and older adults due to risk of dehydration
diarrhoea recent travel- gardiasis