Your patient is a 75-year-old woman complaining of constipation and abdominal pain for two days. Your physical examination reveals a moderately distended abdomen. Which of the following is the best course of action?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Abdominal pain and constipation in an elderly patient with a moderately distended abdomen may indicate a potentially serious medical problem, such as a bowel obstruction. Therefore, transport to a medical facility is the best course of action to properly evaluate and treat the patient. Enemas or laxatives may not be appropriate if a bowel obstruction is present. Suggesting that the patient see her primary care physician may delay treatment and evaluation for a potentially serious condition.

Your Patient Is a 75-Year-Old Woman Complaining of Constipation and Abdominal