1. Introduction

10% of module complete

The purpose of A Continuing Professional Development Module is to provide pharmacists with a comprehensive resource, covering approaches to the management of bowel conditions.

Bowel conditions are often referred to by the umbrella of ‘gastrointestinal (GI) problems’. This is a term used by healthcare professionals to describe a number of symptoms originating in both the upper and lower gastrointestinal tract. Customers, however, will rarely use this general term and rightly so; asking for advice on heartburn or indigestion can be a very different experience to the embarrassment most of us would feel about asking for advice on bowel problems such as constipation or wind.

To this end,it is important to acknowledge the sensitivity needed when dealing with customers experiencing bowel conditions. This is a commonly neglected topic yet one that requires in depth knowledge and understanding in order to deal most effectively with the customer.

The intention of this resource is to educate and instil confidence in pharmacists, so that customers can benefit from up-to-date, informed advice. This guide will focus on:

Recognising that there is a degree of commonality amongst these conditions, this guide aims to bring together ‘bowel health’ for the first time, in an informative, practical training guide.