Fecal Management Systems

[JulieRees]

I am doing some research on fecal management systems (FMS). FMS are utilized for your bedridden, immobilized or incontinent patient with liquid or semi-liquid stool.

Has anyone used a Flexi-Seal, ActiFlo or DigniCare fecal management system. If so, which one have you used or do you prefer and why.[/h]Thank You kindly.

[JazzyK89]

I don't really prefer DigniCares, it's just what my hospital carries. Never used the other two...

[CrufflerJJ, BSN, RN, EMT-P]

We use FlexiSeal, and I've never used the other two systems.

FlexiSeal either works in your pt or it doesn't (leakage).

[Pneumothorax, BSN, RN]

Digicares leak too... oh what fun with a gi bleed and poo everywhere...

[Vespertinas]

I also use a nasal trumpet connected to a foley bag.

Before you call me crazy, research has shown that it's actually less damaging to the rectum (and way cheaper too!)

[edmia, BSN, RN]

Our hospital only carries one FMS -- FlexiSeal. Honestly, I find that it is a waste of money. Leakage, leakage, leakage! Especially hard to get a good seal and containment on overweight patients.

I've had much better luck with a cheaper rectal tube and foley bag system.

[turnforthenurse, MSN, NP]

We have FlexiSeals and from my experience, all they do is leak!

[Hoozdo, ADN]

I have used both FlexiSeal and Actiflo. They both leak slightly but it is better than nothing, by far. I prefer FlexiSeal probably because I have used it much more. Both of them will come out if you have a very aggressive cougher.

I have never tried a nasal trumpet and foley bag. It is a very creative idea!

[hodgieRN]

Our hospital used flexiseal for a while and then we switched to Dignicare. I think Dignicare works better....it's shaped like a cone and I think the leakage is much less. Plus, dignicare is rolling out an improved version. It is better coated and the odor is better contained.

[OhioCCRN, MSN, NP]

Dignicare- leaks EVERYWHERE!!!!

[cparra]

Our hospital just completed a trial on both Dignicare and Flexiseal and we didnt have any issues with Flexiseal..on the other note Dignicare leaked everywhere.

[nikkicoliCCRN]

I have used flexiseal in all the places I've ever worked. It either works or doesn't. According to the inservice provided by the maker the are supposed to leak. (Yes this is what they said). There should always be some leakage around the system. The other problem is that the stool has to be pretty liquid to use it. They also cost almost $500 each.