Skill Test Procedure-1 APPLYING FECAL INCONTINENCE DEVICE

APPLYING A FECAL INCONTINENCE DEVICE

A fecal incontinence device is used to protect the perineal skin from

excoriation due to repeated exposure to liquid stool. This device reduces

perineal skin damage by diverting liquid stool into a collection bag.

A skin barrier may be applied before the device to protect the patient’s skin and improve adhesion. 

If excoriation is already present, the skin barrier should be applied before applying a device.

EQUIPMENT

• Fecal incontinence device

• Disposable gloves

• Additional PPE, as indicated

• Washcloth, skin cleanser, and towel

• Drainage (Foley) bag

• Scissors 

• Bath blanket

NURSINGDIAGNOSIS

• Bowel Incontinence

• Risk for Impaired Skin Integrity

• Impaired Skin Integrity

IMPLEMENTATION

1. Review the medical orders for wound care.

2. Perform hand hygiene and put on PPE.

3. Identify the patient.

4.  Provide privacy to patient.

5.  Assemble equipment on overbed table within reach.

6.  Provide comfortable position to the patient (Sims' position).

7. Put on gloves. Cleanse perianal area. Pat dry thoroughly

8. Trim perianal hair with scissors.

9. Apply the skin protectant or barrier and allow it to dry. Skin protectant may be contraindicated for use with some devices. Check manufacturer’s recommendations before use.

10. With nondominant hand, separate buttocks. Apply fecal device to anal area with dominant hand, ensuring that the bag opening is over anus . Hold the device in place for 30 seconds to achieve good adhesion.

11.  Release buttocks. Attach connector of fecal incontinence device to drainage bag. Hang drainage bag below level of the patient.

12. Remove gloves. Return the patient to a comfortable position. Make sure the linens under the patient are dry. Ensure that the patient is covered.

13. Raise side rail. Lower bed height and adjust head of bed to a comfortable position.

14. Perform hand hygiene.

EVALUATION

• Patient expels feces into the device and maintains intact perianal skin.

• Patient demonstrates a decrease in the amount and severity of excoriation.

• Patient verbalizes decreased discomfort.

• Patient remains free of any signs and symptoms of infection.

DOCUMENTATION

• Document the date and time the fecal device was applied; appearance of perianal area; color of stool; intake and output (amount of stool out); and the patient’s reaction to the procedure.