Bowel Preps for Investigations  (picolax,citramag,fleet,etc)

The NPSA issued a warning in May 2009 about deaths and harm occurring from the use of these agents prior to procedures such as colonscopy and barium enemas.

Full web page here.
(http://www.npsa.nhs.uk/nrls/alerts-and-directives/rapidrr/reducing-risk-of-harm-from-oral-bowel-cleansing-solutions/?locale=en)

PCTs and hospitals have had to meet an action deadline in September so you may have had a reminder from them about this.

• It is the responsibility of the clinician ordering the test to
  assess the patient's suitability for the preparation and investigation
• to provide written information about their safe use to the patient or staff administering these items

So, if as a GP you order a barium enema, you will need to make the assessment and do the prescription and ensure the patient has the written information.

If you have referred to hospital and a clinician has decided it is appropriate for the patient to undergo a barium enema it is that clinician's responsibility to make the assessment and provide the prescription and information.

Please let the office know if you are asked to prescribe by another clinician or hospital department.

FS  Sept 09