Patient
Hi, I'm not feeling too well and need some advice.
Triage Assistant
Where does it hurt?
Patient
It's not really pain exactly—I've been feeling nauseous and kind of generally unwell.
Triage Assistant
I'll help you with that. Can you tell me if you are experiencing any abdominal pain?
Patient
No, there hasn't been any abdominal pain.
Triage Assistant
Are you experiencing any cough or chest pain?
Patient
No, there's no cough or chest pain.
Triage Assistant
I understand. Could you tell me if you've been experiencing any cold symptoms such as a runny nose, sore throat, or congestion?
Patient
No, I haven't had any cold symptoms like that.
Triage Assistant
Alright, if there's no pain and no cold or chest symptoms, let's consider your bowel movements. Have you had any issues with constipation recently?
Patient
Yes, I have been dealing with constipation.
Triage Assistant
How often do you have a bowel movement? When was your last bowel movement?
Patient
I usually go every other day, but it's been about four days since my last one.
Triage Assistant
Do you have to strain to have a bowel movement?
Patient
Yes, I've had to strain quite a bit recently.
Triage Assistant
Does your rectum hurt when the stool comes out?
Patient
It doesn't hurt exactly, but it's definitely uncomfortable.
Triage Assistant
Are the stools hard?
Patient
Yes, they have been pretty hard.
Triage Assistant
Have you noticed any blood on the toilet tissue or on the surface of the stool? If so, when was the last time?
See More Appropriate Protocol
Go to ED/UCC Now (or to Office With PCP Approval)
Go to Office Now
See in Office Today
See in Office Within 3 Days
See in Office Within 2 Weeks
Home Care
Triage result should be See in Office Within 2 Weeks.
Incomplete first aid advice given.
Some assessment questions asked.