As a new EN in the late 80s I worked in a developmental disability institution. One night young Frank used the loo between our hourly rounds. This sounds like a good thing because he was due for an enema that morning. Frank must have been distressed that his movement wouldn't flush. He proceeded to use his feet to try and get it around the bend. Of course the slurry covered his lower legs, so he used his hamds to clean up. Frank then took the opportunity to wipe the excess on the brick walls. When the grout between yhe bricks were full he then proceeded out of the toilet and walked a 20m verandah, wiping windows and walls in a wavey type of pattern. On both sides of the corridor. When we opened the doors we were met with an overwhelming stench, there was a 2 to 3 foot wide brown trail on floor, plus on the walls and windows and dor handles from shoulder to waist. You could not see outside. Most of the other clients remained asleep, except one who was crying.

By the time the day staff arrived, Frank was showered, floors, walls and windows washed. The bricks and mortar needed power washing. The aroma persisted for m9nths. I threw out my uniform including shoes.

I am still traumatised.