Faecal incontinence

Summary

Faecal incontinence is a sign or a symptom, not a diagnosis. Therefore, it is important to diagnose the cause or causes for each individual. Because it is a stigmatising condition, active case-finding will often be needed, probably best targeted at high-risk groups.

All staff working with people with faecal incontinence should be aware of both the physical and the emotional impact this condition can have on people and their carers. Treatment and care should take account of individual needs and preferences.

This guidance offers best practice advice on the care of adults with faecal incontinence

Documents

For healthcare professionals

• CG49 Faecal incontinence: NICE guideline
• CG49 Faecal incontinence: NICE guideline (MS Word format)
• CG49 Faecal incontinence: quick reference guide
• CG49 Faecal incontinence: Full guideline
• Faecal incontinence: Tables
• CG49 Faecal incontinence: Full guideline appendices

For patients, carers and the public

• CG49 Faecal incontinence (bowel control problems): understanding NICE guidance
• CG49 Faecal incontinence (bowel control problems): understanding NICE guidance (MS Word format)

Background information

• 2007/033 New NICE guidance published to help manage distressing bowel problem

Implementing this guidance

Any further information NICE has produced to help the NHS implement this guideline locally is linked to below:

• Faecal incontinence: the management of faecal incontinence in adults: Costing Report
• Faecal incontinence: the management of faecal incontinence in adults Costing Template
• Faecal incontinence: the management of faecal incontinence in adults: Costing Report
• Faecal incontinence: the management of faecal incontinence in adults: Audit criteria
• Faecal incontinence: the management of faecal incontinence in adults: Implementation advice
• Faecal incontinence: the management of faecal incontinence in adults: Presenter slides
• Faecal continence service commissioning guide