The Historical Progression of Bowel Management from a Nursing Perspective

TOPIC

Since the evolution of nursing practice, the management of bowel effluent has been a challenge for both patients and caregivers.  This poster will chronicle the various methods and tools employed to contain stool, protect skin, and preserve patient dignity.   Nurses have traditionally delivered care to patients who could not provide their own toileting needs.  From the time of the cold, porcelain bedpan to the new, innovative bowel management devices, advances have continued to enhance nursing practice and improve patient outcomes. 

PURPOSE

WOCNs from around the world will learn from the poster how practice and patient needs drive development.  This poster will consist mainly of photographs and illustrations of various containment devices placed in a chronological order to demonstrate the historical progression of care and current tools available. 

OBJECTIVE and OUTCOME 

The objective is to educate nurses delivering care to the incontinent patient on the history of bowel management methods, and the current products available.  The outcome will be a greater understanding and appreciation of product development in this area, which will stimulate the discussion of future possibilities in bowel management.