The main focus of caring for patients with faecal incontinence is to keep the anus, perineum and surrounding skin clean and dry.
Wash with water or wipe clean with alcohol- and fragrance-free wet wipes after each bowel movement, then dry the area naturally or wipe dry and apply protective ointments such as skin cream, talcum powder and zinc oxide.
In addition the patient’s absorbent pads should be breathable and absorbent, replaced regularly and the patient should be dressed in breathable, loose fitting underwear.