by Lucille Levine, RN, BSN
Continence Management Product Consultant
Incontinence is particularly challenging. The need to toilet another person, choose appropriate incontinence products, change soiled incontinence products and clean up after unexpected “accidents” are unwelcome and time consuming responsibilities. |
Caregivers are expected to become overnight experts about disease processes, health issues, symptoms and side effects. Taking responsibility for the bodily functions and the twenty-four hour well-being of another can be overwhelming.
Exasperated caregivers complain of being so busy that they do not have adequate time to go to the bathroom to meet their own personal needs. With the demands upon caregivers, it is not surprising that incontinence is the second leading reason why individuals are admitted to long term care facilities.
When incontinence products are required to preserve dignity and to keep the individual dry, it is important choose the product wisely.
Factors that should be considered in choosing an incontinence product include:
• the amount and type of incontinence
• the frequency of incontinence
• the activity level of the user
• the ability of the wearer to participate in applying and removing the product
For the emotional well being of the individual and the caregiver, try to preserve toilet use habits. In the bathroom, prompt the individual’s participation as much as possible. Seek products that are easily removed and reapplied without the need to disrobe.
Remember that people do not usually choose to become incontinent. Often, incontinence is devastating and demoralizing for the individual. Social isolation and fear of embarrassment are common. It is not surprising that depression and incontinence are often linked.
Remember, you cannot be an expert at everything. There is help available to assist in managing of the continence needs of the incontinent person in your life. Easy to use resources have been developed to guide individuals and caregivers to appropriate incontinence product choices. Take advantage of on-line product selection tools such as Disposables Delivered’s “Product Genie” or seek the advice of a Continence Management Product Consultant in planning for incontinence care.
For additional information on Continence Management resources visit the Disposables Delivered website or call 866-613-3251.
