Managing constipation and soiling.
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Biomedical subjects
Publications and source records attributed to June Rogers.
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Functional constipation is a common condition. In the majority of cases the constipation develops as a result of a complex weave of factors including specific triggers, e.g. reduced fluid intake following a viral infection or periods of restricted access to the toilet. The passage of large painful stools perpetuates the problem when the child begins to associate pain with defecation. The management of constipation can often be a challenge in children, who initially may be reluctant to sit on the toilet. This article will discuss the contributory factors to the cause of constipation and identify the keys to successful treatment, including ensuring a holistic child-focused approach with effective initial evacuation and appropriate maintenance therapy.
Promoting continence with children with a learning difficulty has traditionally taken second place to managing their other needs. Previous studies have given the impression that children are not ready for toilet training unless they are able to experience awareness of self and respond to the stimulus of a full bladder. This has resulted in assumptions regarding the ability of some children with learning difficulties to become toilet trained and consequently they are 'labelled' as incontinent and automatically issued with nappies. This approach means that any underlying problems such as constipation are not addressed. By taking a different approach, and focusing on assessing bladder and bowel maturation the author has found that children who were once considered incapable of toilet training can become continent.
The inclusion of children with medical issues, such as stomas, in schools has caused much disruption and anxiety in the past. Many of the problems have been the result of misconceptions and lack of understanding of the issues involved, along with an often irrational fear of 'bodily fluids'. By developing closer links with the education department and opening up clear lines of communication it has been possible to raise awareness and reassure school staff regarding related issues. This article discusses the inclusion of a child with ulcerative colitis, following stoma formation, into mainstream school, and demonstrates how appropriate staff training and the development of a structured individual care plan enabled inclusion to proceed smoothly.
Nocturnal enuresis is one of the common conditions of childhood and left untreated can cause increasing stress and anxiety for the child and disruption for the family. This article gives an overview of the potential contributory factors to the cause of bedwetting and highlights the importance of carrying out a focused assessment using the 'three systems' approach, to not only exclude any underlying pathology but also help direct treatment. The different treatment options are discussed and emphasis is placed on involving the child and family in the decision-making process. A child-focused approach will help ensure that whatever treatment is chosen, either the alarm or desmopressin will lead towards the best treatment outcome.
Children with daytime or night-time enuresis should be assessed to discover the causes, and an appropriate treatment programme should be implemented.
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Explore the source record for details and available documents.