The evaluation of the benefit of a nurse-led one-stop rectal bleeder clinic
Abstract
Context and objectives
Article # 6
Title : The evaluation of the benefit of a nurse-led one-stop rectal bleeder clinic
Author : Paula Swannock
St Vincent ' s Hospital . Melbourne , Australia . Previously University Hospitals of North Midlands NHS Trust
Keywords : Rectal Bleeding , Colorectal Cancer , Nurse Endoscopist , Early Detection , Streamlining Services
DOI : https :// doi . org / 10.21252 / 1w42-y298
The evaluation of the benefit of a nurse-led one-stop rectal bleeder clinic
Abstract
Rectal bleeding is a common referral symptom to colorectal services . In a small percentage of people it can be a recognised symptom of bowel cancer warranting further investigation . With changes in government agendas and referral guidelines there is a vast increase in patients being referred on a fast-track cancer pathway . This paper will evaluate the evidence of the effectiveness of a straight to test , ‘ one- stop ’ rectal bleeding clinic in streamlining a service to meet these demands and diagnosing neoplasms of the left side of the bowel .
Context and objectives
Rectal bleeding is the passing of blood from the back passage or anus and is a common presenting symptom to colorectal clinics . It is most commonly associated with benign conditions such as haemorrhoids , anal fissures or diverticular disease ; however , it may also be a cause of colorectal cancer and polyps and therefore warrants further investigations ( Allen et al 2004 ; Agaba et al , 2006 ; Hibberts , 2011 ; Royal College of Surgeons , 2013 ). In the UK there are over 4,000 new cases of bowel cancer each year and it is the second most common cause of cancer death . Early diagnosis of cancer is commonly easier to treat and shows better survival rates ( Cancer Research , 2015 ; Public Health England , 2017 ). Patients normally attend the hospital for 3 appointments ; consultation , procedure , either colonoscopy or flexible sigmoidoscopy , and follow- up clinic which can be a drain on hospital resources and patients ’ time ( Toomey et al 1998 ; Allen et al 2004 ). Therefore , a one- stop rectal bleeding clinic can be a way to address the issue of number of visits to the hospital as well as speeding up the diagnosis of bowel cancers .