A novel approach to intrarectal bowel management systems and fecal incontinence with improved outcomes
Ashlee F Garcia
Banner Health, USA
: J Regen Med
Abstract
The management of fecal incontinence (FI) is a quality concern related to skin integrity, the spread of infections, and costs accrual. The cost to manage FI is estimated to be around $16.5 to $19.5 billion in the United States and increases the nurse’s workload, hospital stays, linen costs, as well as disposable product utilization . Traditional intrarectal bowel management systems (IBMS) have increased the risk of ulcerations and bleeding due to pressure from the retention balloon which is inflated with saline and allows for the device to remain in place. Closely monitoring the device to evaluate for harm is essential when managing IBMS. A stool management kit (SMK) designed to eliminate inflatable balloon use decreases the radial forces historically required to anchor the bowel management system. This directly reducing the risk of trauma and ulceration to the rectum. Clinical studies have shown the occlusion of vessels in the rectum occur at 36 mmHg and the current system has an average radial pressure of 21.2 mmHg. 80% of nurses who have used the improved system agree that it saves nursing time related to fecal incontinence and improved the ability to perform routine care while the device was in use. Reduced risk of harm and the ability to anchor the system without regard to rectal tone results in broader patient eligibility and increased quality outcomes with the reduction in skin breakdown, reduced infection rates, and ease of use while utilizing the SMK.
Biography
Ashlee F Garcia is a Certified Wound, Ostomy and Continence Nurse (CWOCN), as well as a Certified Foot Care Nurse (CFCN) and works at Banner University Medical Center, Tucson as the Burn Services Coordinator and inpatient wound and ostomy services. She is the President-Elect for the local Tucson Affiliate of the WOCN society. Ashlee graduated with her Bachelor’s degree from Southern Utah University in December of 2009 and received her certifications from Emory University in 2013. She is currently enrolled at Walden University in the Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner program.
E-mail: e: farrer71@gmail.com
