Treatment protocols should be individualised based on the underlying condition and outcomes. Decision-making must be cognisant of the physical, social, psychological, and developmental needs of the child and family. A partnership approach is advocated, which includes child and parent/carer preferences allowing them to make an informed decision.

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Aim To identify a standardised assessment tool that can be used in Ireland to diagnose and treat children with idiopathic constipation, without the need for referral to secondary care. Method The National Institute of Health and Care Excellence (NICE) (2010) guidelines on constipation in children and young people were used as a benchmark tool, which identify keys areas that must be assessed. Seventy-eight patient charts were studied retrospectively to assess whether the key components were undertaken, and 45 patients were deemed suitable for inclusion in an audit due to an idiopathic constipation diagnosis. Results None of the 45 patients received a complete assessment as per the NICE (2010) guidelines. Conclusion A nationwide comprehensive assessment tool to diagnosis and treat idiopathic constipation is needed. The NICE (2010) guidelines should not be used in addition to written information and close follow-up. A document to incorporate all of this called the Poo Passport has been developed.

Following a Posterior Sagittal Anorectoplasty (PSARP), infants require daily anal dilations to prevent stenosis of the new neoanus and obtain optimal width of the anal opening. In this article, Stephanie Orr looks at anorectal malformations, their classification, how they are surgically managed, and the role anal dilatation plays in the care of the infant post PSARP. As anal dilatation is widely performed throughout surgical centres in the UK and Ireland, the Paediatric Stoma Nurse Group (PSNG) have worked together to produce a comprehensive parent information leaflet to support parents who are carrying out anal dilatation on their child. This article will also examine the reasons why the leaflet was created and its benefits.