CARE (Constipation and Reflux Evaluation) Program

Up to 25 percent of children who are referred to the Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition Center at Children's Hospital of Wisconsin have a disorder of defection management and 25 percent of infants are referred for reflux. Treatment and management of reflux and constipation in children are provided in the Constipation and Reflux Evaluation Program by the team of pediatric nurse practitioners in collaboration with our gastroenterologists. A nurse practitioner is a registered nurse who has a master's degree in nursing and has specialized training in pediatric GI disorders and in general child development. Pediatric nurse practitioners can order tests and prescribe medication.

During the first clinic visit, the pediatric nurse practitioner will obtain a health history, perform a physical exam and formulate an individualized treatment plan with the family. Our approach consists of a combination of education, behavior management and medication interventions that are tailored to meet the unique needs of each child. Some tests and lab work may be completed during the visit; others may need to be scheduled for a different day. Dietitians and psychologists also support the program by providing additional intervention on diet and when behavioral issues interfere with management.

Diagnosis/Conditions treated :

• Abdominal pain with constipation.
• Can't potty train.
• Constipation.
• Encopresis (pooping in pants).
• Reflux – infants under 18 months who do not have feeding issues.
• Difficult, painful or infrequent stooling.

Source : http://www.chw.org/display/PPF/DocID/28105/Nav/1/router.asp