This module provides an in-depth understanding of bladder and bowel management in individuals with spinal cord injuries (SCI).  It builds upon foundational knowledge and incorporates interactive e-learning elements to enhance engagement and retention.  This module aims to equip healthcare professionals with the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively manage continence-related challenges in patients with SCI, ultimately improving outcomes and quality of life.

Level: Secure Training Services
Duration: 3 hours approx
Assessment Method: Multiple Choice
Certificate: PDF
Framework and Standards: CSTF
Course provider: Secure Training Services

Upon completion of this course you will be able to,
1. Explain how spinal cord injuries affect the nervous systems control over bladder and bowel function
2. Identify the characteristics, challenges and management strategies for reflexive (spastic) and areflexic (Flaccid) bladder and bowel dysfunction.
3. Evaluate and implement appropriate interventions, including catheterisation methods, bowel programs, dietary adjustments and surgical options.
4. Identify causes, signs and symptoms of Autonomic Dysreflexia and apply immediate emergency management strategies to prevent life-threatening complications.
5. Enhance patient-centered care and improve quality of life.

The course is made up of the following modules
Section 1: Introduction to SCI and its impact on bladder and bowel function
Understanding Spinal Cord Injuries (SCI)
Causes of SCI
Level and Severity of SCI
Interactive Activity: Matching SCI Causes
Section 2: Neurological control of bladder and bowel function
Normal bladder and bowel control
SCI impact on bladder and bowel function
Above T12 injury: Reflexive (spastic) bladder and bowel - involuntary emptying
Below T12 Injury: Areflexic (Flaccid) bladder and bowel - urinary retention and constipation
E-learning activity; Clickable diagram
Section 3: Bladder management strategies.
Short-term and long-term management approaches
Indwelling Catheters (Urethral and Suprapubic)
Intermittent Self Catheterisation (ISC)
Urinary Sheaths for Male Patients
Surgical Interventions
Medications
Section 4: Bowel Management Strategies
Bowel Management Strategies
Types of bowel dysfunction
Bowel management approaches
Non-invasive strategies
Timed bowel programmes
Medical and nursing interventions
Advanced bowel management techniques
Case Study: Bowel Management Decision
Section 5: Autonomic Dysreflexia (AD) and Emergency Management
Understanding Autonomic Dysreflexia (AD)
Causes of AD
Signs and Symptoms of AD
Emergency management of AD
Case Study: Managing AD
Resources
Section 6: Assessments and Interactive Learning Activities
Assessment Introduction
Section 7: Course Completion and Certification
Key Takeaways
Final Activity: Reflection
Thank you

Healthcare Professionals
Nurses
HCAs