The management of dehydration and incontinence in nonambulatory geriatric patients

We evaluated a health care routine designed to decrease incontinence and improve the hydration level of nonambulatory nursing home patients. To implement this routine, a 3' X 4' cart was equipped with liquids and toileting equipment. A nurse's aid was assigned the task of taking the cart to each nonambulatory resident in a nursing home and offering specified assistance on a regular basis. Data demonstrated a decrease in physical dehydration, as well as in fecal and urinary incontinence.