Opioid-induced constipation (OIC) is a well-known phenomenon, although there is limited literature evaluating the incidence of OIC in children admitted to the pediatric intensive care unit (PICU). The primary aim of this study was to determine the incidence of OIC in the PICU and to determine if it is associated with a higher rate of morbidities or prolonged length of stay (LOS).
We conducted a single-center retrospective chart review from July 1, 2014, to June 30, 2015, in our PICU. We included all patients 18 years and younger with a PICU stay of at least 96 hours, who received opioids during their admission. Data were collected on frequency of bowel movements and characteristics of opioid administration. Demographic and clinical data were obtained from Virtual PICU System, LLC.
Of the 94 patients who met study criteria, 39.4% developed constipation. These patients tended to be older (p=0.06) and were noted to weigh more (p=0.03). There was no significant difference in the total or median daily doses, duration of opioid treatment, or mode of administration. Constipation rates did not differ by severity of illness. There was a higher incidence of constipation in the patients who were admitted for neurological issues, or after trauma or abdominal surgery (p=0.002). Patients with constipation had longer LOS than patients without constipation, but the difference was not statistically significant.
These results indicate that opioid use is not the sole risk factor for constipation in the PICU setting. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.