Self care in neurogenic intestine in subjects with spinal cord injury : an integrative review

Abstract

Aim: To identify the nursing interventions that promote self-care in the neurogenic intestine in subjects with spinal cord injury, related to the nursing diagnoses listed as Risk of Constipation, Constipation and Intestinal Incontinence. Method: This study used the integrative review of electronic databases using descriptors. In the analysis of data, we used the Theory of Self-Care Deficit. Results: The most mentioned interventions of self-care were; nutritional orientation, consumption of liquids, going to the toilet at the same time every day, abdominal massage, decubitus change and Valsalva maneuver. Discussion: The gastrointestinal dysfunction can cause constraints and it can also harm interpersonal relationships. The nurse must evaluate the eliminatory standard of this clientele, prioritizing non-pharmacological and less invasive actions, considering dietary preferences, cultural habits and the economic resources of the subjects available to invest in a certain diet. Conclusion: Nurses can contribute to the promotion of self-care for patients with neurogenic intestine, and the Theory of Self-Care Deficit can be used as an important tool in this process.