An NP-led bowel management program for patients with spina bifida.

This nurse practitioner (NP)-led bowel management program services over 250 children ages 0-22 years focusing on holistic, individualized care to address neurogenic bowel dysfunction (NBD). The NP increases accessibility, provides comprehensive support, family education, personalized treatment plans, and close follow-up. By assessing the physical, emotional, and social needs of each child and family, the program improves quality of life, promotes self-management, and reduces complications like fecal incontinence and emergency room visits and hospitalizations related to constipation. Key interventions include collaboration with interdisciplinary teams, implementation of evidence-based bowel protocols, and continuous family engagement.