It is important that patients have access
to continued practical as well as emotional
support and counselling following discharge
from hospital. Continence nurse advisors
are often a good resource and source of
support for patients and can continue to
work with patients to establish effective bowel
management.
Following surgery for CES, it is important
that the patient is given the opportunity
to discuss the impact of CES and likely
recovery. Referrals to a urologist or other
members of the multidisciplinary team
should be made before discharge to ensure
continuity of care once the patient has left
the hospital. Where available, patients should
be informed of specialised CES follow-up
clinics, support groups or websites, such as
the Cauda Equina Syndrome UK Charity
(www.cesukcharity.org.uk).