Digital Rectal Evacuation and Bowel Management

Clinical

Course No. 1193

£ (Please contact us for a group quote.)

Face to Face - 6.00 hour(s)

Certificate of Attendance

Available Funding:

Self funded

Book Closed Course

Leave a Review

Download Course PDF

Course Outline

This course offers clear and practical training in adult bowel care to help you support people safely and with confidence. You will learn about how the bowel works, what can go wrong, and the factors that affect bowel health, such as medication, diet, and hydration. We will also look at rehabilitation techniques that can improve comfort and wellbeing.

The course explains important procedures including digital rectal examination, giving suppositories and enemas, and the digital removal of faeces. You will gain role-specific awareness of each step, alongside the need for careful risk assessment and awareness of complications such as autonomic dysreflexia.

We place strong emphasis on safe practice and clinical standards with all of our Clinical Training courses, so you feel confident that the care you provide is effective and professional. With a mix of theory, demonstrations, and practical sessions, you will finish the course with greater knowledge and hands-on skills in bowel management.

View all Clinical Training Courses

On completion of this course you will be able to:

Explain the Clinical Governance surrounding Bowel Management
List the functions of the bowel and what affects the bowel function
List the treatment options available
Demonstrate practical skills relevant to bowel assessment, management and treatment plans

Module 1 – Understanding Bowel Function

Explore bowel anatomy and physiology
Learn how the bowel works and what can go wrong
Understand factors that affect bowel health, including medication, diet, nutrition, and hydration

Module 2 – Bowel Dysfunction and Assessment

Recognise common bowel problems and their impact on health and quality of life
Learn how to assess bowel function and identify signs of dysfunction
Understand the importance of accurate documentation and communication

Module 3 – Bowel Management Procedures

Step-by-step awareness of digital rectal examination
Safe administration of suppositories and enemas
Digital removal of faeces: procedure and professional responsibilities

Module 4 – Safety, Risk, and Governance

Carry out robust risk assessments before any procedure
Recognise contraindications and complications, including autonomic dysreflexia
Explore clinical governance and professional standards in bowel care

Module 5 – Rehabilitation and Ongoing Care

Learn techniques to support bowel health and patient comfort
Understand how to promote dignity, independence, and wellbeing in care
Explore the role of multidisciplinary teams in bowel management

Module 6 – Demonstration and Practical Session

Watch expert demonstrations of key procedures
Take part in supervised practice in a safe learning environment
Build hands-on confidence in delivering bowel care

Who is this course for?
This course is designed for healthcare professionals and support staff involved in bowel care.

Do I need prior experience?
No. The course is suitable for both beginners and those wanting to refresh their knowledge and skills.

What topics are covered?
You will learn about bowel function and dysfunction, assessment, safe procedures, risk management, and rehabilitation techniques.

What procedures are taught?
We cover digital rectal examination, administration of enemas and suppositories, and digital removal of faeces.

Why is this training important?
Bowel care is essential for health, comfort, and dignity. This training ensures safe, effective, and professional practice.