Patient
Hi, I'm calling because I'm having some issues with my digestive system and could use some advice.
Triage Assistant
Where does it hurt?
Patient
I don't have any pain per se, but I'm having trouble with bowel movements.
Triage Assistant
How often do you have a bowel movement?
Patient
I usually have a bowel movement every couple of days, but it only happens when I use a laxative.
Triage Assistant
Do you have to strain to have a bowel movement?
Patient
Yes, even with the laxatives, I still find myself straining quite a bit to have a bowel movement.
Triage Assistant
Does your rectum hurt when the stool comes out?
Patient
Not really, I don't feel any significant pain in my rectum during bowel movements. The main issue is just the difficulty in going without a laxative.
Triage Assistant
Are the stools hard?
Patient
Yes, my stools tend to be quite hard.
Triage Assistant
Has there been any blood on the toilet tissue or on the surface of the bowel movement?
Patient
No, I haven’t noticed any blood on the toilet tissue or in the stool itself.
Triage Assistant
Is this a new problem for you, or have you dealt with constipation for a while?
Patient
I've been dealing with constipation on and off for a while, but it seems to have gotten worse recently. I've had to rely on laxatives more frequently than before.
Triage Assistant
Have there been any recent changes in your diet or hydration levels? How much fluids are you drinking on a daily basis?
Patient
I haven't made any major changes to my diet, and I try to stay fairly hydrated, but I could probably be drinking more water. I usually drink around 4-5 glasses a day.
Triage Assistant
Have you been taking any new medications, or are you currently taking any narcotic pain medicines?
Patient
No, I haven't started any new medications, and I don't take any narcotic pain medicines. I do take a daily multivitamin, but that's about it.
Triage Assistant
Have you been using any stool softeners, laxatives, or enemas? If so, what and how often?
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Home Care
Triage result was accurate.
First aid advice was given.
All assesssment questions asked.