How to Take Control of Your Bowel Health—The Right Way
Bowel Care Management
Bowel care management focuses on helping individuals maintain bowel health and eliminate waste. This includes hygiene, toileting support, and medications like stool softeners or laxatives.
Proper bowel care improves quality of life and overall health.
When to Seek Help for Bowel Care Concerns
For those at risk of severe constipation or incontinence, specialised bowel care is crucial. Effective management prevents complications and makes sure of comfort, dignity, and well-being.
Trained professionals provide personalised care that meets each person’s needs
The Everyday Habits That Keep Your Bowels Healthy
Preventing Problems
Follow care plans created by healthcare professionals. Encourage healthy habits like eating fibre-rich foods, drinking enough water, and staying active to support bowel function.
Use tools like the Bristol Stool Chart to track and detect abnormalities early.
Monitoring and Recording
Keep fluid balance charts to track intake and output. Record bowel movement frequency and consistency to spot any issues quickly.
Early Intervention
Administer prescribed treatments, such as stool softeners or enemas, promptly. Report any complications, including blood in the stool, severe pain, or constipation, to a healthcare professional immediately.
Infection Control
Follow hygiene protocols, including wearing gloves and properly disposing of waste. Sanitise all equipment after use to prevent infections and maintain safety.
Promoting Dignity and Privacy
Explain all procedures clearly to the patient and obtain consent. Maintain privacy during care to protect the patient’s dignity.
Education and Encouragement
Promote healthy habits like hydration, balanced nutrition, and mobility. Educate patients and caregivers about maintaining these practices for long-term bowel health.
The Most Overlooked Rules for Proper Bowel Management
Do’s
- Follow the care plan as prescribed.
- Explain procedures to the patient and prioritise their comfort.
- Encourage hydration, nutrition, and mobility.
- Monitor bowel habits using tools like the Bristol Stool Chart.
- Report and address any complications early.
- Maintain strict hygiene by cleaning equipment and following protocols.
Don’ts
- Deviate from the care plan without consulting healthcare professionals.
- Overlook the patient’s comfort or fail to explain procedures.
- Neglect documentation or delay reporting changes in bowel habits.
- Ignore signs like blood in the stool, severe pain, or dehydration.
- Reuse equipment without thorough cleaning and sanitisation.
What Healthcare Professionals Want You to Understand About Bowel Care
Effective bowel care involves careful monitoring, prompt action, and respect for the patient’s dignity.
By following best practices and care plans, healthcare providers can prevent complications and improve quality of life.
Need Support With Bowel Care Management?
Contact our team for expert guidance and personalised support.
Together, we can make sure of safe, respectful, and effective bowel care for everyone.
