Constipation

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Constipation-related Abdominal Pain

Generally, we recommend using the ED Abdominal Pain/Bowel Obstruction OSNG/OG bundle
Common GI medications and antibiotics
Enema convenience bundle
GI-specific diagnostic imaging (XR, US, CT, etc)
Abdominal X-rays are not necessary in most cases of constipation (see Article)
For patients that are considered for admission secondary to constipation/impaction issue (established or NOT established with GI), GI should be called first to discuss admission placement. Depending on census and acuity, some patients may be served better on the PHM service.

NASPGHAN Constipation Care Package

Click the link below for the ESPGHAN and NASPGHAN “Constipation Care Package”. This resource includes useful information ranging from physician to patient resources about constipation.

NASPGHAN Constipation Care Package

COA GI PCP Referral Checklist

COA GI PCP Constipation Referral Checklist Download

Disclaimer: These clinical pathways are intended to be a guide specifically for residents, fellows, CRNPs, and physicians (“practitioners”) at Children’s of Alabama (“COA”). These clinical pathways may be adapted for each patient depending on clinical scenarios based on the practitioner’s judgment, consideration of unique circumstances, needs of the patient and their respective family, and availability of resources of where the patient is located. These clinical pathways are not to be construed as medical advice or treatment. COA does not represent or warrant that the clinical pathways are in every respect accurate or complete, or that one of more of them apply to a particular patient or medical condition. COA is not responsible for any errors or omissions in the clinical pathways, or for any outcomes a patient might experience where a clinician consulted one or more such pathways in connection with providing care for that patient.