Aims Trans-anal irrigation (TAI) is safe and effective in managing symptoms of anal incontinence and chronic constipation. Adequate knowledge, training and patient support are important for patient compliance, however drop-out rates are high. We carried out group-based educational sessions (GBE) to support patients with practical aspects of TAI. Methods One-hour long sex-segregated GBE sessions were carried out twice a year including talks delivered by a bowel specialist nurse and a dietician. This was followed by patient discussion and showcasing of irrigation devices by medical representatives. An anonymous feedback questionnaire was completed by patients. Results Between 2017 and 2024, 75 patients attended aged between 24 and 92 (median 62 years). The majority were female (83%); 77% were white. The most common reason for attending was constipation (68%), followed by anal incontinence (25%). 44 (59%) went on to trial a new product (29 immediately, 15 after nurse follow-up). The feedback questionnaire was completed by 41 patients. Of these, 36 rated the session as useful/very useful; 31 felt better able to manage their symptoms following the session; and all 41 patients would recommend the session to family and friends. 37 patients felt it was useful and empowering to attend with others experiencing the same symptoms. Conclusions GBE on TAI provided practical support, knowledge and a safe forum for patients living with bowel dysfunction. They led to a high uptake of trialling new products and patient feedback was positive.

A brief overview of recently published articles on gastroenterology, hepatology and stoma care

Aim: To critically examine the evolving clinical role of ostomy seals in supporting peristomal skin health and to define key performance attributes aligned with evidence-based stoma care. Background: Ostomy seals are often perceived as additional accessories. However, advances in material science and clinical understanding have re-defined their role as essential components in maintaining peristomal integrity and improving patient outcomes. Discussion: This article explores the functional and clinical expectations of modern ostomy seals, including moisture management, adhesion, mouldability and compatibility. It critiques the influence of added ingredients and calls for a return to core performance metrics. Skin protection, wear-time, ease of application and consistency are highlighted as critical domains for clinical decision-making. The importance of nurse confidence in product selection and outcomes is also discussed. Conclusion: Modern ostomy seals should be regarded as active clinical tools, not passive barriers. When selected intentionally, based on clinical reasoning, seals can enhance skin protection, reduce complications and reinforce nurse-led, patient-centred care.

Background Liver cirrhosis is a complex chronic disease requiring comprehensive and individualized care. Patients often face barriers such as low health literacy, stigma, and fragmented care pathways, which exacerbate disease management challenges. Objective: To evaluate the implementation of individualized outpatient pathways for patients with liver cirrhosis, focusing on patient education, palliative care, and a nurseled liver clinic. Method A process evaluation using the concepts in realistic evaluation was conducted, including surveys, interviews, and observations involving patients, healthcare professionals, and department managers. Data were analyzed to identify inhibitory and supportive mechanisms at patient, healthcare professional and organizational levels. Results: Key findings highlight the importance of education, patient-centered communication, and interdisciplinary collaboration. Inhibitory mechanisms included organizational instability and limited resources. Supportive mechanisms, such as strong leadership and relational continuity, facilitated successful implementation. Conclusion Individualised outpatient pathways enhance patient knowledge, engagement, and care quality. Successful implementation requires leadership support, interprofessional collaboration, and tailored interventions addressing patients' unique needs

Background: Research on blended diet for tube-fed children has been identified as a top priority for clinicians and families due to its growing popularity. Aim: This article evaluates and summarises a systematic review that examined the benefits and complications of using blended diet in children and young people and expand upon its findings in the context of current evidence and practice. Methods: The Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal Checklist was used to critically appraise the review. Findings: Blended diet may have the potential to lead to positive outcomes. Conclusion: Currently the evidence regarding the benefits and complications of tube-fed blended diet for children and young people is limited and further better-quality research and reporting is needed in the area.

A brief overview of recently published articles on gastroenterology, hepatology and stoma care

Background: Transanal irrigation (TAI) is considered a minimally invasive treatment option that may be suitable for individuals struggling with faecal incontinence or constipation, where conservative measures have been insufficient to manage their symptoms. Aim: To provide patient-reported evaluations of performance and safety of a new low-volume TAI system (Peristeen® Light, Coloplast A/S). Methods: Patients who had been using the new low volume TAI system for at least 6 weeks were eligible to provide evaluations of the device via a retrospective survey. A total of 75 patients from the UK, Germany, the Netherlands and Sweden provided such evaluations. Findings: Two-third of the patients reported that the device helped them manage their bowel issues to a high or a very high degree and found that use of the device gave them control of their bowels. Most patients stated that the device was discreet, simple to use, quick to prepare for use and 95% would recommend it to others. Few side-effects were reported by the patients, however no new issues resulting in harm were identified, and the complications reported herein by the patients were within the range of events reported for other TAI systems. Conclusion: Use of the new low-volume TAI system was well-tolerated with only few side-effects reported, it performed well in managing faecal incontinence and constipation, and 95% of patients would recommend the device to others.