Changing attitudes in the management of urinary incontinence-the need for specialist nursing

Much interest has been shown recently in the plight of the incontinent patient and how incontinence should be managed. Incontinence has a complex aetiology and may be part of many medical and social problems. Because there is a delay between completing investigations and making a diagnosis we have established a system of nursing care. Initially this was meant to provide the person protective garments and appliances, but it now covers management in both the community and the hospital. The preliminary results show that patient assessment is effective and that specialist nurses and a co-ordinated scheme to educate both doctors and nurses are needed.