Royal College of Nursing Representing nurses and nursing, promoting excellence in practice, shaping health policies

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#ParalysedBowel campaign

14 May 2025, 17:45 - 18:30

  • Room 1C, Exhibition Centre Liverpool, King's Dock, Port of Liverpool, Liverpool, L3 4FP
Submitted by the Bladder and Bowel Forum in collaboration with the Spinal Injuries Association
A Freedom of Information request conducted by the Spinal Injuries Association (SIA) revealed concerning gaps in spinal cord injury (SCI) bowel care across NHS trusts, with only 54 out of 123 trusts reporting formal policies and 26 trusts having no bowel assessment procedures in place. In response, the RCN’s Bladder and Bowel Forum, in collaboration with the SIA, is working to improve care and knowledge for these vulnerable patients. This session, aimed at all delegates, addresses the importance of appropriate bowel care for people with SCI, following a 2018 Patient Safety Alert that highlighted the need for policies and trained staff. Despite this, a 2024 review showed little progress. The session will challenge misconceptions around manual evacuations, providing health care professionals with the knowledge and confidence to deliver safe, routine care. Key learning outcomes include understanding neurogenic bowel causes, the risks of inadequate care, and how to appropriately manage bowel care for SCI patients.

Room 1C
Exhibition Centre Liverpool
King's Dock
Port of Liverpool
Liverpool
L3 4FP

Page last updated - 07/04/2025