Continence assessment in primary care: what is the next step?

There are many assessment 'forms' available for the collection of information in relation to bladder dysfunction. In many cases such forms have not been fully validated and should only be considered on a face validity basis. Validated symptom scores are available but these are generally used within specific areas of urology, e.g. lower urinary tract symptom scores for prostate screening. This article explores the need for an improved validated assessment and symptom scoring tool for nurses within primary care, to enable nurses to establish a preliminary diagnosis in adult patients presenting with bladder symptoms.