Nursing Education: Fecal Incontinence Management Systems

​Background: Critical care patients with fecal incontinence management devices in place are at an increased risk of pressure injury. Incontinence, or the lack of voluntary control over defecation, is known to irritate one’s skin due to repeated soiling. Fecal incontinence management devices, such as the Convatec Flexi-Seal FMS device, are used for incontinent patients with liquid or semi-liquid stools to prevent soiling of the patient's skin which often leads to irritation and breakdown. Objective: A needs assessment will be conducted to gather information about nursing care and knowledge of fecal incontinence management systems to plan for nursing education on the topic. Method: Critical care nurses will be surveyed based on their individual knowledge, skills, and attitudes regarding experience of device insertion and management. The survey results can be compared to current evidence regarding medical devices and related pressure injuries. This information along with product guidelines will be incorporated into the education recommendation. Results: The survey results, along with educational plan, and content will be presented to the unit educator and leadership team for future educational planning. Discussion: The identification of certain knowledge gaps may allow for a needs-based education to enhance nursing knowledge about fecal incontinence management devices and prevent future pressure injuries. Identified gaps may be solved by conducting a needs assessment prior to education.