It is estimated that 5 to 20 million people may be affected by fecal incontinence (FI), and the aging baby boomer population is expected to add to these numbers. Yet screening remains inadequate and patients suffer silently. Incontinence is associated with multiple risk factors but should not be regarded as a normal process of aging. Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) can reliably detect sphincter abnormalities to select patients who would benefit from either surgical or medical treatment. Opportunities for researching best practice abound while proper screening, referral, and treatment will insure that continence and the quality of life for these patients improves. This presentation will include: the definition of fecal incontinence, prevalence, patient experience, quality of life, reasons for non-disclosure, self-care approach, nature of the neglect, and economic impact. Additional information includes anatomy of the anal canal, characteristics of sphincters, control of continence, risk factors, practice implications, and diagnostic work-up. Supportive procedures such as EUS, anorectal manometry (ARM), pudendal nerve terminal motor latency (PNTML), electromyography (EMG), and cine defecography are highlighted along with medical treatment, surgical treatment, and recommendations and future opportunities for evidence based practice.

Section Description

We are pleased to present the abstracts from sgna's 36th annual course, SGNA: your gateway to opportunity. The diversity of these topics certainly reflects the richness and breadth of our specialty. in keeping with the tradition of the annual course, we hope the following abstracts will encourage discussions for improving nursing practice and patient care outcomes.