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Published on: November 9, 2016
Brief report: Adherence to fluid recommendations in children receiving treatment for retentive encopresis
Elizabeth S Kuhl1, Barbara T Felt, Susana R Patton
1Department of Psychology, Eastern Michigan University, USA. elizabeth.kuhl@cchmc.org
Insights
Children with retentive encopresis increased fluid intake during treatment but showed low adherence to goals. High juice consumption is a concern, indicating a need for better education and strategies.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Gastroenterology
- Behavioral Health
Background:
- Retentive encopresis is a common childhood condition.
- Adequate fluid intake is crucial for managing encopresis.
- Data on fluid intake adherence in treated children are limited.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess fluid intake adherence in children undergoing treatment for retentive encopresis.
- To evaluate the types of fluids consumed by these children.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective chart review of diet diaries from 26 children (ages 3-12).
- Children completed a group behavioral intervention for retentive encopresis.
Main Results:
- Mean daily clear fluid intake significantly increased during treatment.
- Water and juice were the primary fluids used to increase intake.
- Adherence rates to established clear fluid goals were below 50%.
Conclusions:
- Increased fluid intake did not correlate with high adherence to fluid goals.
- High juice consumption poses potential health risks.
- Future research should explore enhanced fluid education and behavioral strategies to improve adherence.
Objective:
Limited data are available regarding whether children being treated for retentive encopresis are adherent to recommendations to increase their daily fluid intake. The purpose of this study was to examine fluid adherence in children who received treatment for retentive encopresis.
Methods:
A retrospective chart review was performed using diet diary data for 26 children (ages 3-12) who completed a group behavioral intervention for retentive encopresis.
Results:
Mean daily intake of clear fluid increased significantly during treatment and children relied primarily on water and juice to make this dietary change. However, adherence rates to clear fluid goals were <50%.
Conclusions:
Children's increased clear fluid intake did not equate to high fluid adherence. Children's high juice consumption is concerning as it could place them at risk for other negative health consequences. Future research should examine whether enhanced fluid education and use of behavior change strategies yield higher fluid adherence.
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