Rectal bleeding in adults: assessment and management in primary care

GP Dr Roger Henderson advises on what practice nurses need to consider when patients present with rectal bleeding

Module summary:

Rectal bleeding is a common symptom in adults of all ages, affecting around 10% of the UK population each year. Although only a relatively small number of these people seek medical attention, rectal bleeding can be a sign of conditions such as colorectal cancer or inflammatory bowel disease.

Practice nurses may occasionally be the first point of contact for patients presenting with rectal bleeding and so it is very important to have a good working knowledge of its causes and how to assess and manage it.

Learning objectives:

By the end of this module, you will have a greater understanding of:

• The causes of rectal bleeding
• Possible differential diagnoses
• How to investigate rectal bleeding
• How to treat rectal bleeding
• The prognosis for patients with rectal bleeding

Author: Dr Roger Henderson is a GP based in Scotland

Module published: 11.04.24