Case background
You are an FY1 doctor on the gastroenterology ward. A nurse approaches you to request a review of Mrs. Margaret Brown, complaining of abdominal distension and constipation.
Nurse: “Hello Doctor. Mrs. Margaret Brown is a 72-year-old female complaining of abdominal distension and constipation. She has a history of hypertension, osteoarthritis, and diverticular disease, and is on ACE inhibitors and intermittent NSAIDs and codeine. Her vital signs are stable, but she hasn’t had a bowel movement for 2 days, and she’s reporting ongoing abdominal discomfort. Could you review her when you’re available?”
What do you do next?
Speak to the patient and gather a history
Perform an abdominal examination
How would you perform an abdominal examination on the patient?
Click here for a summary of how to perform an abdominal examination.
Click here to jump straight to the patient findings.
Click here to return to your job’s list
