The aim of bowel management is to re-establish regular bowel patterns and to avoid recurrence of dysfunction. The approach to bowel management depends on the type of dysfunction. Adequate time should be given to allow any changes to management to take effect before evaluating efficacy.
It is important that the person with bowel dysfunction is given appropriate support to manage the problem. The following is a list of practical steps which may be helpful:
- Orientate to the environment. Make sure the location of the toilet is known and clearly signed. This should include pictured as well as written signage.
- Ensure adequate assistance is provided to the individual for their toileting needs.
- Implement toileting regime if necessary.
- Use prompts as required.
- Recognise cognitive and communicative impairments and provide assistance where necessary.
- Guide the person with regard to an appropriate toileting position and encourage them to sit for as long as necessary in order to allow sufficient time for defecation to occur.
- Ensure satisfactory diet and fuid intake.
- For different types of bowel dysfunction, refer to specific management protocols.
- Treat all possible causes of bowel dysfunction. Please refer to Summary of Factors that can Cause/Contribute to Bowel Dysfunction and their Management.
- Seek expert advice with regard to the use of medication for the management of bowel dysfunction.
For further information regarding medication (including contraindications) refer to British National Formulary.
For further advice on diet and fluids see Diet and Fluid Intake.