Chronic enterocutaneous fistula: management in the community setting

Despite being aggravating and potentially embarrassing, enterocutaneous fistulas can be successfully managed, with patients being able to resume many of their normal daily activities while the fistula continues to drain. Nevertheless, the management of enterocutaneous fistulas in the community can pose many challenges to nurses, the most common being peri-fistula moisture-associated skin damage. This article presents fistula management plans, which can facilitate the long-term support of these patients, promoting patient comfort and adherence to treatment.