Wound Ostomy Continence Nurse Management of Urinary Incontinence

Purpose:  This poster is to raise awareness of the prevalence of urinary incontinence (UI), the significant individual and socioeconomic burden on patients, families, and caregivers, as well as management options available for the wound ostomy continence (WOC) nurse in a variety of settings, including acute, outpatient, rehab, and long term care.   

Literature Review:  A literature review to determine the prevalence of UI and management options amenable within WOC nurse practice settings was conducted using CINAHL, PubMed, and Google Scholar. Urinary incontinence (UI), any involuntary leakage of urine, affects men and women with a twofold prevalence in the female population.  Both sexes are affected equally after age 80 and prevalence is estimated as high as 55%. UI can affect quality of life leading to depression, falls, impaired skin integrity, reduced social and sexual function, and dependence or caregivers. The annual cost for UI, including medical care and containment products, varies from $19.5 - $32 billion. Treatment begins with the least invasive approach and improvement is determined by the individual. Success is reported as a reduction in frequency of occurrences, minimal side effects, and an enhanced quality of life.

Conclusion: WOC nurses need to be aware of the extent of UI and the impact it has on an individual and family. They can be instrumental in the diagnosis, management, and improvement in the patient’s quality of life.

Implications for Practice: WOC nurses have the opportunity to screen patients for UI. Positive findings should prompt additional assessments including a review of medications and risk factors, a history of medical problems, and a thorough physical exam with a focus on GI, GU, and neurological systems. The WOC nurse can initiate, recommend, and/or coordinate a general stepped approach management of UI which begins with noninvasive behavioral modification, followed by devices, and pharmacological management.