Related Experiment Video
Updated: Apr 26, 2026
Assessment and Evaluation of the High Risk Neonate: The NICU Network Neurobehavioral Scale
Published on: August 25, 2014
Nocturnal enuresis: an approach to assessment and treatment
Aaron P Bayne1, Steven J Skoog1
1Pediatric Urology, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR.
Insights
Primary monosymptomatic nocturnal enuresis (PMNE) significantly impacts children psychologically, necessitating targeted treatment. First-line therapies for PMNE include bedwetting alarms and desmopressin.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Urology
- Sleep Medicine
Background:
- Primary monosymptomatic nocturnal enuresis (PMNE) is a common childhood condition often outgrown spontaneously.
- Despite spontaneous resolution, PMNE can cause significant psychological distress, making treatment a priority.
- Accurate diagnosis is crucial to differentiate PMNE from nonmonosymptomatic nocturnal enuresis (NMNE) and secondary enuresis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To emphasize the importance of psychological impact in treating PMNE.
- To outline evidence-based, consensus-driven treatment strategies for PMNE.
- To guide primary care physicians in distinguishing PMNE from other enuresis types.
Main Methods:
- Utilizing bladder diaries, sleep history, and daytime elimination assessments to guide treatment.
- International consensus panels providing guidelines for diagnosis and management.
- Differentiating between PMNE, NMNE, and secondary nocturnal enuresis.
Main Results:
- Treatment for PMNE should be individualized based on specific bedwetting patterns.
- Children with NMNE require addressing underlying voiding or stool issues before enuresis therapy.
- Bedwetting alarms and desmopressin are established as first-line treatments for PMNE.
Conclusions:
- Psychological well-being is a primary driver for treating PMNE in children.
- A systematic approach using diagnostic tools is essential for effective PMNE management.
- First-line therapies, including alarms and desmopressin, offer proven efficacy for PMNE.
Abstract:
On the basis of strong evidence, although primary monosymptomatic nocturnal enuresis (PMNE) is common and most children will outgrow the condition spontaneously, the psychological effect to the child can be significant and represents the main reason for treatment of these children. On the basis of international consensus panels, treatment of PMNE should be targeted toward the specific type of bedwetting patterns the child has, using bladder diary, sleep history, and daytime elimination concerns as a guide (Table 3). On the basis of international consensus panels, it is important for the primary care physician to be able to differentiate children with PMNE from children with nonmonosymptomatic nocturnal enuresis (NMNE) and secondary nocturnal enuresis. On the basis of international consensus panels, children with NMNE should have their underlying voiding or stool problem addressed before initiation of therapy for the nocturnal enuresis. On the basis of strong evidence, both the bedwetting alarm and desmopressin are considered first-line therapy for children with PMNE.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
01:17Urinary Tract Infection IV: Nursing Management
01:28Urinary Tract Calculi V: Nursing Management
01:21Nursing Assessment of the Genitourinary System I: Health History
01:26Nursing Assessment of the Genitourinary System II: Inspection and Palpation
01:30Urinary Tract Infection III: Diagnostic Studies and Interprofessional Care
01:22Nursing Assessment of the Genitourinary System III: Percussion and Auscultation