Patient
Hi, thanks for taking my call. I'm experiencing a bit of a health concern and was hoping to get some advice.
Triage Assistant
I'm here to help. Where does it hurt?
Patient
I don't have any pain specifically, but I'm noticing an unusual symptom.
Triage Assistant
What symptom are you experiencing?
Patient
I've noticed something concerning during my bowel movements.
Triage Assistant
How often do you have a bowel movement, and when was your last one? (Normal range: 3 times a day to every 3 days)
Patient
I have a bowel movement almost every day. I had my last one this morning.
Triage Assistant
Do you have to strain to have a bowel movement?
Patient
No, I don't usually have to strain. My bowel movements are typically quite regular.
Triage Assistant
Do you experience any rectal pain when passing stool?
Patient
No, I don't experience any pain when passing stool. It's just that I've noticed something unusual in the stool itself.
Triage Assistant
Are the stools hard or have there been any changes in their composition?
Patient
No, there haven't been any significant changes in the composition or hardness of my stool.
Triage Assistant
Have you noticed any blood on the toilet tissue or on the surface of the bowel movement? If so, when was the last time?
Patient
Yes, I've noticed some blood in my bowel movements. The last time was this morning.
Triage Assistant
Is this a new problem for you or have you experienced this before? If so, for how long?
Patient
This is fairly new for me. I've only noticed it over the past couple of days.
Triage Assistant
I recommend visiting your doctor within the next few days for an evaluation. Blood in the stool can have several causes and it’s important to get it checked out promptly. In the meantime, here are some steps you can take: 1. Eat a high fiber diet to keep your bowel movements regular. 2. Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated. 3. Avoid straining during bowel movements. If you notice any increased bleeding, develop severe pain, or have other symptoms like fever or abdominal swelling, seek medical attention more urgently. Thank you for calling, goodbye.
Call EMS 911 Now
See More Appropriate Protocol
Go to ED Now
Go to ED/UCC Now (or to Office With PCP Approval)
Go to Office Now
See in Office Today
See in Office Today or Tomorrow
See in Office Within 2 Weeks
Home Care
Triage result should be Go to ED Now.
First aid is not applicable.
Some assessment questions asked.