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Summary
Polymer underpads and diapers offer better incontinence management than nonpolymer options, despite higher initial costs. The study recommends polymer diapers for ambulatory patients and polymer underpads for bedridden patients, deeming nonpolymer underpads ineffective.
Area of Science:
- Incontinence management
- Healthcare economics
- Clinical nursing research
Background:
- Urinary and fecal incontinence are common challenges in acute care settings.
- Effective management of incontinence impacts patient comfort, skin integrity, and healthcare costs.
- Previous studies have not comprehensively compared the cost-effectiveness of various incontinence products.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the cost outcomes of managing incontinence using diapers versus underpads.
- To evaluate the effectiveness and efficiency of different types of incontinence products (polymer, nonpolymer, cloth).
- To provide evidence-based recommendations for optimal product selection in patient care.
Main Methods:
- A randomized clinical trial involving 166 patients across three acute care facilities.
- Patients were assigned to five groups: polymer underpads, nonpolymer underpads, polymer diapers, nonpolymer diapers, and cloth underpads.
- Cost analysis included product usage, linen consumption, and staff time for cleanup.
Main Results:
- Nonpolymer underpads were least expensive per product but required more frequent use and longer cleanup times.
- Polymer underpads demonstrated superior containment, leading to minimal linen use.
- Diaper products incurred higher overall costs compared to both polymer and cloth underpads.
Conclusions:
- Polymer diapers are recommended for ambulatory patients, and polymer underpads for bedridden patients.
- Nonpolymer underpads are not recommended for incontinence management due to ineffectiveness and higher associated labor costs.
- Optimizing product selection based on patient mobility and product performance can significantly reduce overall healthcare costs.