Her surgical history is significant for neonatal closure of her myelomeningocele, ventriculoperitoneal shunt placement, and Malone ACE procedure.
On exam, you see a well appearing young woman on a gurney in no apparent distress with normal vital signs. Her general exam is normal and her abdominal exam shows two well healed stomata: one in her umbilicus and the other to the right of her umbilicus. She has decreased bowel sounds and a soft, non-tender abdomen.
Which of the following is the BEST course of action at this time:
A. Irrigate the bowel
B. Double her dose of polyethylene glycol
C. Discharge home after ensuring close follow up
D. Prescribe a mild stimulant laxative such as senna glycoside
In the meantime, a quote –
“Why is patience so important?"
"Because it makes us pay attention.”
-- Paulo Coelho