Author(s): 
PK Flanagan, MS Ahmed, SM Tin, S Sarkar
Journal Issue: 
Volume 41: Issue 2: 2011

Format

Abstract

Introduction: Bowel preparation has led to serious adverse events. Consequently, regulatory and advisory bodies have issued guidance, including a risk stratification of patients, aiming to minimise this risk.

Aims: To determine the impact of the new guidance on our current practice of Picolax used in colonoscopy with regard to patient stratification, compliance and service implementation.

Methods: Patients listed for day case colonoscopy during October 2009 were audited using data from the hospital and endoscopy databases. A follow-up, structured patient telephone interview evaluated side effects, the assessment process and patient experience.

Results: Of the participating 112 patients, 97.4% were clinically reviewed before colonoscopy, 98.3% received written instructions and 70% verbal instructions. None had their preparation dispensed by a regulated professional. Although 62% of patients were retrospectively identified as ‘at risk’ (elderly, with congestive cardiac failure, cirrhosis or chronic kidney disease or on angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, angiotensin receptor blockers, diuretics or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), none were identified before their procedure. Significant events (postural hypotension, collapse, dizziness, palpitations, faint) were seen in 4.4%, all of whom could potentially be identified as ‘at risk’ using a stratification of low estimated glomerular filtration rate? with relevant co-morbidity (congestive cardiac failure or cirrhosis).

Conclusions: Given the difficulties with compliance and the high prevalence of ‘at risk’ patients, the implementation will be challenging and require significant service redesign.

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