title: Digital removal of faeces.
abstract: Defecation is essential to enable us to eliminate waste and keep our bowels functioning. In some individuals, defecation is not possible without an intervention. This might be oral medication, such as laxatives to soften the stool and propel the faeces round the colon, or digital removal of faeces (DRF) by a competent health professional on a regular basis. This article considers who needs DRF, who can carry it out, the ethical and legal implications, and the importance of appropriate bowel care being carried out in all care settings.
authors.affiliation: Croydon University Hospital.
authors.forename: Wendy
authors.initials: W
authors.lastname: Ness
mesh_terms: D005244:Fecal Impaction / Q000451:nursing*; D005243:Feces; D005385:Fingers; D006801:Humans; D013222:State Medicine; D006113:United Kingdom