Helpful Patient Information and Resources
At the Center for Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition, we want families to feel informed and prepared at every stage of care. Below you’ll find educational pamphlets, guidelines, and pre-procedure instructions to help you better understand your child’s condition and what to expect. If you have questions about any of these materials, call (708) 581-4911.
Request an AppointmentInformation Pamphlets
These pamphlets provide an overview of common pediatric digestive conditions and how they are diagnosed and treated:
To read more about the conditions we treat, explore our pediatric gastroenterology services, including detailed pages on celiac disease and inflammatory bowel disease.
Guidelines and Charts
These tools help families track symptoms and follow recommended care at home:
For families managing ongoing digestive concerns, our constipation care page offers additional guidance on symptoms and treatment.
Pre-Procedure Instructions
If your child is scheduled for a diagnostic procedure, these instructions will help you prepare:
Learn more about what to expect during a pediatric colonoscopy. If you have questions about your child’s upcoming procedure, please call (708) 581-4911 and our team will be glad to help.
Frequently Asked Questions
How should my child prepare for a colonoscopy?
Preparation typically involves cleaning out the colon with oral medication and following a clear liquid diet in the day or two before the procedure. Detailed steps are provided in our Colonoscopy Instructions pamphlet, and our team will review the full preparation process with you beforehand.
What is a stool chart and how do I use it?
A stool chart helps you and your child’s provider track bowel movements, including frequency and consistency, over time. This information can be very helpful for diagnosing and monitoring conditions like constipation or irritable bowel syndrome. You can download our Stool Chart from the guidelines section above.
Where can I find instructions for my child’s endoscopy?
Our Endoscopy Instructions pamphlet, available in the pre-procedure section above, walks you through how to prepare your child for an upper endoscopy. If you have any questions after reviewing it, call (708) 581-4911.
Are these pamphlets a substitute for medical advice?
No. These educational materials are meant to support, not replace, guidance from your child’s provider. Always follow the specific instructions given by your pediatric gastroenterologist, and contact our office with any questions about your child’s individual care.
How do I know if my child’s constipation needs medical attention?
If your child has fewer than three bowel movements a week, experiences pain or difficulty passing stool, or symptoms last longer than two weeks, it may be time to see a specialist. Our Constipation Guideline offers helpful information, and you can learn more on our constipation care page.
Who do I contact if I have questions about a resource?
Our friendly staff is available to answer questions about any of these materials or your child’s care. Simply call (708) 581-4911 and we’ll be happy to help.