Effect of Implementing Colon Irrigation Guidance Protocol on Knowledge and Practices of Pediatric Surgical Nurses

Abstract

Functional constipation (FC) in children is a common health issue with reported global prevalence levels of up to 32.2%. Several management strategies have been developed, including diagnostic tests, empirical, and specific treatment. Colonic irrigation is an effective treatment for functionally disordered children. This method performed by trained and qualified healthcare professionals and requires thorough instruction and training. This study aimed to assess the effect of implementing colon irrigation guidance protocol on knowledge and practices of pediatric surgical nurses. Methods: a quasi-experimental design was carried out on 45 nurses who work at the department of pediatric surgery and pediatric intensive care unit affiliated to Mansoura University Children's Hospital (MUCHs), Mansoura City, Egypt. Two tools used to collect the study: a structured questionnaire sheet for assessing the knowledge of nurses about colon irrigation, and the observation sheet to evaluate the practice of colon irrigation by nurses. Results: There was a statistically significant difference in the knowledge and practices of the nurses regarding colon irrigation immediately after and three months later compared to the guidance protocol before. Conclusion: Introducing guidance protocol has had a major positive impact on enhancing the knowledge and practices of nurses about colon irrigation. Recommendations: The best evidence-based practices regarding the importance of practicing colon irrigation techniques correctly for children with functional constipation must be provided to pediatric surgical nurses.