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Rectal bleeding referral — GPhC CRA MCQ

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EasyGI TherapeuticsRectal bleeding referralGPhC CRA

A 65-year-old man presents to the pharmacy with rectal bleeding. He has noticed fresh red blood on the toilet paper after wiping for the past week. He takes aspirin 75 mg and atorvastatin 40 mg daily. He assumes it is haemorrhoids. What is the most appropriate action?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

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Correct answer: E — Refer him to his GP for assessment as rectal bleeding in a patient over 50 requires investigation to exclude bowel cancer

Rectal bleeding in a patient aged 50 or over is a potential symptom of colorectal cancer and warrants investigation. NICE NG12 recommends referral for patients with unexplained rectal bleeding, particularly in older adults. While haemorrhoids are a common cause, the pharmacist should not make this diagnosis and should refer the patient to the GP for appropriate assessment, which may include a referral for colonoscopy or FIT test.

Reference: NICE NG12 Suspected Cancer; NICE CKS Rectal Bleeding