title: Management of faecal incontinence of a patient with spinal cord injury.
abstract: This case study, of an outpatient with a C6 spinal cord injury who was experiencing episodes of faecal incontinence, and the successful application of evidence-based care, highlights the need for comprehensive assessment of chronic bowel problems and a 'return to basics'. Using Gibbs' (1988) reflective cycle, the author discusses emerging issues and analyses them with reference to the supporting literature. As a result of this reflective study a comprehensive bowel assessment form was devised to ensure that staff do not automatically prescribe aperients, but reassess every aspect of a patient's bowel regimen when problems arise. In addition, a fact sheet describing the correct methods for digital stimulation, and a quality of life scoring tool, have been written.
authors.affiliation: The Duke of Cornwall Spinal Treatment Centre, Salisbury District Hospital, Salisbury.
authors.forename: Wendy
authors.initials: W
authors.lastname: Slater
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D002400:Cathartics / Q000008:administration & dosage; D004334:Drug Administration Schedule; D005242:Fecal Incontinence / Q000209:etiology* / Q000451:nursing* / Q000523:psychology; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D009720:Nurse Clinicians; D009723:Nurse-Patient Relations; D009730:Nursing Assessment / Q000379:methods; D010347:Patient Care Planning; D010353:Patient Education as Topic / Q000379:methods; D010358:Patient Participation; D012646:Self Administration / Q000379:methods; D013119:Spinal Cord Injuries / Q000150:complications*
chemical_list: D002400:Cathartics