45.: Tablet-based Data capture in Multiple Sclerosis (TaDiMuS) improves continence management in multiple sclerosis

We aimed to (a) screen an unselected cohort of patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) for bladder and bowel dysfunction using a tablet-based, self-administered questionnaire; and (b) validate the methodology with formal continence assessment in those patients with either bladder or bowel dysfunction scores beyond a predetermined level (⩾2). A custom-developed tablet-based system (Tablet-based Data capture in Multiple Sclerosis; TaDiMuS) was used to capture data at the MS Clinic at the Brain and Mind Research Institute. Twenty-five patients with MS completed the Bladder Control Scale (BLCS) and the Bowel Control Scale (BWCS) components of the TaDiMuS system in the waiting room prior to their clinic appointment. Scores of 2 or more on either questionnaire automatically generated an electronic referral to the MS continence nurse containing test scores and a hyperlink to a secure web-based form to provide feedback regarding continence assessment and management outcomes. All patients were administered both tablet-based questionnaires without assistance in the waiting room, and normal clinic workflow was not disrupted. In 16/25 patients, scores in the BLCS or BWCS of 2 or more generated referral for formal continence review, with which 12 patients proceeded. All 12 patients reviewed by the MS continence nurse required conservative advice (12/12), pharmacological intervention (4/12) and/or specialist urological referral (2/12). Tablet-based data capture is an efficient and feasible method of screening MS patients for bladder and bowel dysfunction. Concordance with the results of formal continence assessment in this small pilot study validates the use of this technology as a screening tool. The TaDiMuS system streamlines clinical workflow, provides a portal for patient education, and has the potential to improve patient outcomes through early detection and management of sphincter dysfunction in MS.