Question about Digital Stimulation

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I have a new patient that is a quad. and requires digital stimulation daily.:no:

Now, of course, I know what it is and "how" to do it but I never actually have.

Can someone lay it out for me in "lamens" terms step by step just to make it a little easier because I'm a bit nervous I'm going to screw up :banghead: (i know what you're thinking, how can you screw it up? right, i know) - haha, I sorta feel like I'm going on my first date or something here, help me out! :D thanks.

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I have actually never done this. I am interested in the answer.

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Specializes in Med/Surg, ICU, ED.

I copied this from MedlinePlus so I can't take credit for the info. I hope it helps.

Regards,

Jim

Bowel movements may be stimulated by digital stimulation. Digital stimulation is performed by inserting a lubricated finger into the orifice and using a circular motion. Stimulate the lower bowel until the sphincter relaxes. This may take a few minutes. If digital stimulation does not produce a bowel movement within 20 minutes, repeat the procedure.

Digital stimulation should be performed every day to stimulate bowel movement, until a pattern of regular bowel movements is established. Bowel movements may also be stimulated by using a suppository (glycerin or Dulcolax) or a small enema.

After stimulation has been performed, assume a normal posture for bowel movement. If you are able to walk, sit on the toilet or bedside commode. If you are confined to the bed, use a bedpan, in as close to a sitting position as possible, or use a left side lying position if unable to sit. Try to ensure privacy as much as possible. Also, some people find that reading while sitting on the commode helps them relax and aids in bowel evacuation.

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Specializes in med surg.

We have a spinal cord injury unit so I am unfortunately all too familiar with bowel routines!! Our procedure: Give suppository to pt in bed and let it melt for approx 10-20 min.

Then we get pt up to a shower chair (a good high back one for a quad if you have them) with pan underneath- much easier to be able to reach under and do the dig stim than say on a toilet. I usually let gravity work for about 10 minutes or so at first. Then do one dig stim- lubricated finger just inside and make a slow ring around wall. Sometimes it will relax also if you keep in one spot putting pressure on wall. Give gravity another chance and come back in 10 more minutes to try a second dig stim./see if any more stool came down in bowel.

I think some places probably do bowel routines in bed with a bedpan but really for Quads especially it won't be nearly as effective.

Hopefully this helps a little!

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Specializes in ICU.
We have a spinal cord injury unit so I am unfortunately all too familiar with bowel routines!! Our procedure: Give suppository to pt in bed and let it melt for approx 10-20 min.

Then we get pt up to a shower chair (a good high back one for a quad if you have them) with pan underneath- much easier to be able to reach under and do the dig stim than say on a toilet. I usually let gravity work for about 10 minutes or so at first. Then do one dig stim- lubricated finger just inside and make a slow ring around wall. Sometimes it will relax also if you keep in one spot putting pressure on wall. Give gravity another chance and come back in 10 more minutes to try a second dig stim./see if any more stool came down in bowel.

I think some places probably do bowel routines in bed with a bedpan but really for Quads especially it won't be nearly as effective.

Hopefully this helps a little!

THanks. I've never had to do it either, so this was informative.

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Specializes in LTC,Hospice/palliative care,acute care.
Ihaha, I sorta feel like I'm going on my first date or something here, help me out! :D thanks.

THAT is so funny in a sick kind of way......good luck,O virgin digitizer.....

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