Journal
REHABILITATION NURSING
Volume 43, Issue 5, Pages 245-254Publisher
LIPPINCOTT WILLIAMS & WILKINS
DOI: 10.1097/rnj.0000000000000093
Keywords
Spinal cord injury; bowel management; military veterans; chronic back injuries; rehabilitation; peer support; coping strategies; independence; physical activity; bowel training; adjustment following discharge
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Funding
- Society of Gastroenterology Nurses and Associates
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Study Purpose: The aim of the study was to describe strategies used by veterans with spinal cord injury to achieve control over bowel function and fit their bowel programs into their lifestyles in the years following the initial injury. Methods/Design:Using a qualitative descriptive design, 18 outpatient veterans with spinal cord injuries were interviewed at a Veteran's Administration hospital. Recorded interviews were transcribed verbatim and analyzed to determine major themes. Findings/Conclusions: Fourteen of 18 participants had gained control over bowel function and led active lives. They emphasized the importance of positive attitudes, listening to their bodies, being physically active, taking charge, and using trial and error to find the best bowel control strategies. Findings also highlighted the value of peer support and the problem of military service connected back injury leading to spinal cord injury.
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