A 5-year-old boy has hard stools twice weekly and stool withholding after a painful bowel movement. He has normal growth, no vomiting, and normal

Question

A 5-year-old boy has hard stools twice weekly and stool withholding after a painful bowel movement. He has normal growth, no vomiting, and normal neurologic examination. Abdomen is soft. Which of the following is the most appropriate next step in management?

Accepted Answer

Start polyethylene glycol and toilet routine

Answer

Start chronic opioid therapy

Answer

Perform colectomy

Answer

Order barium enema as first test

Answer

Prescribe antibiotics

Constipation — USMLE Step 3 MCQ

A 5-year-old boy has hard stools twice weekly and stool withholding after a painful bowel movement. He has normal growth, no vomiting, and normal neurologic examination. Abdomen is soft. Which of the following is the most appropriate next step in management?