Scientific Poster Session II - Students Research-in-Progress

Abstract

Research Question or Hypothesis: Implementation of the nurse-driven bowel protocol reduces incidence of constipation in ICU patients compared to a pre-protocol period with no standardized bowel regimen.

Study Design: Retrospective cohort study

Methods: This study will include patients who received the bowel protocol (July 1, 2023 to February 29, 2024) compared to a pre-bowel protocol control group (patients admitted to the medical ICU from July 1, 2019 to February 29, 2020). Inclusion criteria include ages 18 and older, mechanically ventilated MICU patients, and an ICU stay of >72 hours. The primary outcome is incidence of constipation (>72 hours with no defecation) during ICU stay. Secondary outcomes include rates of diarrhea, ICU length of stay, duration of mechanical ventilation, and rates of Clostridioides difficile infections. Demographic information, including age, weight, SAPS II score, morphine milliequivalents during ICU stay, and primary admission diagnosis will be collected. We estimated that enrollment of 116 patients would provide 80% power to detect a 50% relative reduction in constipation, calculated from an estimated constipation rate of 50% in the control group and 25% in the intervention group. A Chi-square test will be used for the primary outcome and other nominal data as well as a logistic regression to account for differences in baseline characteristics.

Results: Results are ongoing.

Conclusion: We anticipate a decrease in rates of constipation with the nurse-driven bowel protocol. This project will serve to promote the continuation of the protocol with potential expansion to other units and institutions.

Presenting Author

Authors