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Impact of a nurse-led clinic for chronic constipation in children
Nevine Ismail1, Irene Ratchford, Celia Proudfoot
1Department of Paediatrics, Countess of Chester Foundation Trust NHS Hospital, UK.
Insights
A nurse-led clinic significantly improved childhood constipation management. Children experienced better bowel regularity and softer stools, with reduced soiling and pain after attending the clinic.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Gastroenterology
- Nursing Practice
- Child Health Management
Background:
- Chronic constipation affects a significant number of children.
- Inadequate management can lead to physical and emotional distress.
- Nurse-led interventions offer a potential solution for improving pediatric constipation care.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effectiveness of a nurse-led constipation clinic for children.
- To assess changes in symptom severity and management understanding.
- To determine the impact on defecation frequency, stool consistency, and soiling.
Main Methods:
- A prospective study of the first 50 pediatric patients (1.5-10 years) with constipation lasting at least six months.
- Questionnaires administered before the initial visit and at the third visit (3-4 months later).
- Interventions included education on constipation physiology, laxative use, compliance, and toileting behavior.
Main Results:
- Significant improvements observed in defecation frequency and stool softness.
- Marked decrease in soiling and pain during defecation.
- Increased parental understanding of constipation and its management.
Conclusions:
- Nurse-led clinics are effective in improving the management of childhood constipation.
- Patient education and behavioral strategies enhance treatment outcomes.
- This model of care leads to significant symptom improvement and better quality of life for affected children.
Abstract:
The impact of a nurse-led constipation clinic was assessed by evaluating the first 50 patients, aged 1.5 to 10 years, using a questionnaire before initial clinic visit and at the third clinic visit, three to four months later. Patients had been constipated for at least six months. The nurses explained the physiology of constipation, the rationale for laxative treatment and the need to comply with treatment. Good toileting behaviour was encouraged. This resulted in an increase in defaecation frequency and stool softness, whereas soiling and pain on defaecation decreased. There was no significant change in the amount of laxatives taken, although it was suspected that compliance improved. Parental understanding of constipation and its management increased. Overall, the control of constipation in children improved markedly through attendance at a nurse-led clinic.
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