Urinary incontinence management in women: audit in general practice

In several Western European countries guidelines regarding urinary incontinence (UI) management in general practice have been drawn up. The aim of this study was to evaluate guideline adherence with feedback in general practice in order to improve UI management.

First, a retrospective audit of female patient records was performed with Egton Medical Information System compared with the NICE Guideline regarding UI. Between 1 January 2000 and 31 December 2006 patients, 18-65 years of age, with newly diagnosed UI (ICPC U04) were included in two general practices in Nottingham, UK. Second, results were presented to the general practitioners (GPs) in a feedback session.

Sixty-five patients were identified to have newly reported UI. Gynaecological examination was performed in 51% of cases. Additionally, in 40% of patients a urine sample was obtained for dipstick. Follow-up was performed in 34% of the 65 cases. During a feedback session GPs became aware they do not adhere to these guideline items consistently. Patients often report UI as final after several other problems during one single consultation.

Most women with UI were not managed according to the NICE Guideline. Audit feedback created awareness of current UI management in general practice and can therefore be used in improving UI management.