26 01 2008

Problems with incontinence may be caused by:

• Moving too slow to make it to the toilet in time
• Clothing may be too complicated to pull down quickly
• Loss of sensation of needing to use the toilet
• Inability to tell a someone that he/she needs to use the toilet

Medical reasons for incontinence

• Urinary tract infection or prostate enlargement or infection
• Side effects of medications
• Impaired nervous system
• Pelvic muscle weakness
• Pelvic, prostate, or rectal surgery
• Stress or fear

Physical aspects of incontinence

• Keep the skin dry, clean and well lubricated
• Recognize changes in skin condition to prevent skin problems
• When the skin is too dry, moisten it with ointment or lotion
• When the skin is too moist, dry it with powder or cornstarch
• Change wet pads and clothes often
• Use soft pads and clothing and keep them wrinkle free

 Tips to prevent or decrease incontinence

•  Establish a regular schedule for toileting
• Start the schedule first thing in the morning, continue with two-hour
  intervals, and adjust as necessary
• Use the same routine every time
• Learn to tell the signs or facial expression of the person needing to
  use the toilet
• Place a commode or urinal at the bedside at night
• Use toilet before leaving the house and/or when arriving at destination
• Limit the intake of liquids after dinner and in the evening to help
  control incontinence at night time
• Provide reminders to use the bathroom
• Don’t wait for the person to tell you he/she has to use the bathroom

 Take the pressure of incontinence by:

• Using washable chair cushion covers
• Waterproof cushions by sliding them in a garbage bag
• Waterproof bed by putting a plastic mattress cover over mattress
• Putting washable or disposable pad in bed to protect the linens
• Using incontinence pads, diapers, or absorptive underwear
• Changing clothing immediately after an accident
• Taking extra pads and clothing when going outside house

Eating Toileting