Role Player Card No.

41 NURSING
SETTING Gastroenterology Clinic
PATIENT You are a 25 year old who has just received a diagnosis of Irritable Bower
Syndrome. You had a colonoscopy early this week at the clinic. You have had
several episodes of abdominal cramps, flatulence and diarrhoea. It’s been
very embarassing as you did not know what to do about the symptoms.
TASK „ You have had some episodes of painful abdominal cramps, frequent
wind problems, which are very embarassing, and bowel problems. It
started about 3 months ago - you have had bouts of diarrhoea and
constipation. It has happened a few times. You have been off your food.
You feel bloated and uncomfortable. It is very painful when it happens.
„ You have noticed that it was worse a few months ago as you had a lot
of stress at that time. You started a new job which is highly paid but very
stressful.
„ You’ve heard the name before, IBS, but you don’t know anything about
it. You thought it meant that you were allergic to fibre in food.
„ You understand about the tablets now. Check that you only take the
tablets if you have cramps, diarrhoea or vomiting. Confirm that the
other suggestions, diet changes and stress management, are things
she should do all the time to try to prevent future bouts of the condition.

Candidate Card No. 41 NURSING

SETTING Gastroenterology Clinic

NURSE You are the nurse who works at the Gastroenterology Clinic. You see patients after
they undergo tests at the clinic. You are now talking to Jenny Vassily, a 25 year-old
who has been diagnosed with Irritable Bowel Syndrome at the clinic. The patient is
not sure about the conditions and needs advice about treatment and management.

TASK „ Find out about the symptoms she experiences eg. type, duration, frequency,
pain.
„ Find out about any triggers she may have noticed - e.g. stress
„ Explain what IBS is in simple language - no clear cause but intestines
probably over sensitive at times, smooth muscle becomes over active -
spasms, cramps, IBS - either constipation, diarrhoea or both
„ Outline treatment options - pt has been supplied with medication for pain,
diarrhoea and constipation. She needs to make diet changes (avoid high
fibre foods and gas-producing foods like cabbage, eat regular meals).
Stress management - suggest activities like yoga, meditation or gentle walks.