Implementation and Evaluation of a Free Incontinence Screening Clinic in a Suburban Community Hospital Outpatient Setting

Background: Even though the risk of urinary incontinence may increase with age, it is not a normal part of aging. It affects approximately 25 million Americans, both men and women. It is a highly treatable and often curable condition.

Approach: A free, voluntary confidential urinary incontinence screening clinic was conducted on two occasions in an outpatient setting of the hospital. Individuals called in to schedule a 30-minute appointment to meet with a certified continence care nurse. Brief demographic, urinary symptoms, current medicine and previous related treatment data were obtained from all participants. No physical exam or urine tests were conducted. Twenty-four people participated, 18 women and 6 men, ranging in age from 20 to 90 years. Participants were given recommendations for symptom treatment and management, a copy of their screening results, and suggestions for follow up. Educational handouts and some absorptive product samples were provided. All participants completed a screening evaluation survey to rate the screening process.

Outcomes: A two week post-screening phone call was made to participants. Seventy-nine percent of participants responded. Fifty-two percent talked to their primary physician or made a follow up appointment. Seventy-nine percent made lifestyle changes (change in fluid intake). One hundred percent verbalized that they were more aware of their problem and the help available. Fifty-eight percent saw a decrease in incontinence severity. Twenty-one percent asked if we were having another screening clinic that their friends or family could attend.

Conclusions: All participants appreciated and praised the screening effort. They agreed that the nurses were very knowledgeable and the educational materials were helpful. All participants reported that they would recommend the screening to others and agreed there was a need for further screening in the community.