Priorities in nursing management of fistulas in a community setting

The aim of this article is to discuss care in the community of patients with a fistula. Areas considered include definition and classification of fistulae, potential causal factors and associated diseases. The article concentrates on enterocutaneous fistulation and the care of patients, but also includes a summary about caring for a patient with an anal fistula. The essential elements of nursing in a community setting are described, and information given on skin care, nutrition, fluids and appliances.