Fecal incontinence is a challenge for both patients and the nurses who care for them, especially in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU). Prolonged or repeated exposure to feces can lead to complications, such as reduced skin integrity, pressure injuries, and hospital-associated infections (HAIs). Leakage of stool may also interfere with wound healing, incontinence-associated dermatitis, or […]

Managing fecal incontinence is challenging for patients in the intensive care unit (ICU) and the healthcare staff who care for them. Traditional fecal management solutions involve the use of absorbent pads and intrarectal balloon catheters. While these methods help to manage fecal effluents, these are associated with various clinical complications. ICU Patients are at Special […]

The anal sphincters constitute a set of 2 muscles that form a ring around the anus and are crucial in maintaining continence mechanism in the body. The anal sphincter is a complex muscular structure that comprises two main components: the inner, involuntary (smooth) muscle called the internal anal sphincter and the outer, voluntary (striated) muscle […]

ICU patients often suffer from compromised immune systems due to their underlying medical conditions, invasive procedures, and the use of immunosuppressive medications. This weakened defense system leaves them highly susceptible to infections, which can significantly impact their recovery and overall health. Hospital-acquired infections (HAIs), also known as healthcare-associated infections, are quite common in in ICU […]

ICU nurses carry out many critical tasks throughout the course of a shift. In fact, a recent study shows that nurses typically perform about 125 activities each hour, and switch tasks approximately every 29 seconds. In the ICU, many nursing procedures are life-saving in nature. Other nursing interventions are not as critical to saving a […]

Over-inflating balloon catheters is common, but is it a safe for patients? Fecal incontinence can make a hospital stay complicated. Left in contact with skin, stool can hamper skin integrity, cause incontinence-associated dermatitis, contribute to pressure ulcers, and even lead to dangerous hospital-associated infections (HAIs). Stool may also interfere with the healing process of surgical […]