Quantitative assessment-based nursing intervention improves bowel function in patients with neurogenic bowel dysfunction after spinal cord injury: Study protocol for a randomized controlled study

Medicine, 2020 · DOI: 10.1097/MD.0000000000023354 · Published: December 18, 2020

Spinal Cord Injury Nursing Gastroenterology

Simple Explanation

Neurogenic bowel dysfunction is a common issue after spinal cord injury, affecting a large percentage of patients. This study aims to assess if a nursing approach that uses detailed patient evaluations and personalized care plans can improve the quality of life and bowel function in these patients. The study is a randomized clinical trial conducted at the First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University. Participants will be divided into two groups: one receiving routine nursing care, and the other receiving the new quantitative assessment-based nursing intervention. The nursing intervention involves scoring patients based on imaging results and symptoms, then creating tailored care plans. This includes dietary adjustments, abdominal massage, exercises, and techniques to stimulate bowel reflexes.

Study Duration

6 Months

Participants

50 neurogenic bowel dysfunction patients after SCI

Evidence Level

Level 1, Randomized controlled study

Key Findings

1
The primary outcomes measured will be bowel function recovery and patient satisfaction. Secondary outcomes will include quality of life, assessed using the SF-36 questionnaire, which covers aspects like physical pain and mental health.
2
Nursing intervention based on the quantitative evaluation can improve the quality of life and recovery of intestinal function for the neurogenic intestinal dysfunction patients after SCI.
3
Patients in the study group will receive individualized nursing interventions, including dietary adjustments, abdominal massage, exercises to strengthen abdominal muscles, and stimulation of the anus to facilitate colorectal reflexes.

Research Summary

This study investigates the effectiveness of a quantitative assessment-based nursing intervention for patients with neurogenic bowel dysfunction following spinal cord injury. The intervention aims to improve bowel function and quality of life through personalized care plans. The study employs a randomized controlled trial design, comparing a group receiving the new intervention with a control group receiving routine care. Outcomes will be measured using bowel function assessments, patient satisfaction surveys, and the SF-36 quality of life questionnaire. The expected outcome is that the quantitative assessment-based nursing intervention will lead to improved bowel function and enhanced quality of life for patients with neurogenic bowel dysfunction after spinal cord injury.

Practical Implications

Improved Patient Care

Implementing quantitative assessment-based nursing can lead to more effective and personalized care for patients with neurogenic bowel dysfunction.

Enhanced Quality of Life

The intervention has the potential to improve the quality of life for patients with SCI by addressing bowel dysfunction, a significant concern for this population.

Evidence-Based Practice

The study will provide evidence to support or refute the effectiveness of this specific nursing intervention, contributing to evidence-based practice in SCI rehabilitation.

Study Limitations

1
Insufficient research design
2
Small size of sample
3
The effectiveness of nursing intervention based on quantitative evaluation needs further study.

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