Self-management for patients with inflammatory bowel disease in a gastroenterology ward in China: a best practice implementation project.

BACKGROUND: Globally, there is an increasing incidence of inflammatory bowel disease. It is very important for patients to be involved with self-management that can optimize personal heath behavior to control the disease.

OBJECTIVES: The aim of this project was to increase nursing staff knowledge of inflammatory bowel disease discharge guidance, and to improve the quality of education for discharged patients, thereby improving their self-management.

METHODS: A baseline audit was conducted by interviewing 30 patients in the gastroenterology ward of Huadong Hospital, Fudan University. The project utilized the Joanna Briggs Institute's Practical Application of Clinical Evidence System and Getting Research Into Practice audit tools for promoting quality of education and self-management of patients with inflammatory bowel disease. Thirty patients were provided with written materials, which included disease education and information regarding self-management. A post-implementation audit was conducted.

RESULTS: There was improvement of education prior to discharge and dietary consultancy in the gastroenterology ward. Self-management plans utilizing written materials only were not sufficient for ensuring sustainability of the project.

CONCLUSIONS: Comprehensive self-management education can make a contribution to improving awareness of the importance of self-management for patients with inflammatory bowel disease.