Diarrhoea

Clinical Description

Common causes (see relevant chapter for details)

Infectious (refer to specific chapters), check for constipation with overflow diarrhoea in immobile patients on opiates, other

Non-pharmacological

• Encourage oral fluids if dehydrated
• Attention to skin care and regular change of linen (see section on pressure/bed sores)

Pharmacological

• Morphine 2.5mg-5mg 4 hourly or MST 10mg every 12hrs
• Loperamide 4mg STAT then 2mg after each loose stool

Complications and Referral Criteria

• IV fluids maybe indicated in certain situations when patient becomes dehydrated (e.g.

as a result of chemotherapy)