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Diagnosing urinary incontinence in adults.
1Howard University College of Nursing, Washington, D.C.
The Nurse Practitioner
|June 1, 1989
Summary
Urinary incontinence affects all ages, particularly the elderly, and significantly impacts nursing home costs. This guide offers clinical insights and diagnostic strategies for healthcare providers managing incontinence.
Area of Science:
- Geriatrics
- Urology
- Internal Medicine
Background:
- Urinary incontinence (UI) is a prevalent health issue affecting individuals across all age groups, with a notable impact on the elderly population.
- UI represents a significant financial burden, contributing 3-8% to the overall costs associated with nursing home care.
- Effective management of UI is crucial for improving patient quality of life and reducing healthcare expenditures.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide a comprehensive overview of the clinical presentation of urinary incontinence.
- To establish clear guidelines for the diagnostic evaluation of patients with incontinence.
- To serve as a practical resource for healthcare professionals in diagnosing and managing urinary incontinence.
Main Methods:
- Detailed review of the clinical manifestations and pathophysiology of urinary incontinence.
- Development of structured protocols for patient history taking, focusing on incontinence-specific details.
- Guidelines for conducting thorough physical examinations relevant to diagnosing incontinence.
- Recommendations for psychological assessment to identify contributing factors.
- Outline of appropriate diagnostic studies, including laboratory and imaging techniques.
Main Results:
- The article delineates the key clinical features associated with various types of urinary incontinence.
- It presents a systematic approach to patient evaluation, integrating history, physical examination, psychological assessment, and diagnostic studies.
- The proposed guidelines facilitate a comprehensive and accurate diagnosis of urinary incontinence.
Conclusions:
- A systematic and thorough diagnostic approach is essential for effectively managing urinary incontinence in diverse patient populations.
- Healthcare providers can utilize these guidelines to improve the accuracy and efficiency of incontinence diagnosis.
- Early and accurate diagnosis of urinary incontinence can lead to better patient outcomes and potentially reduce associated healthcare costs.