Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 14, 2026
Assessment and Evaluation of the High Risk Neonate: The NICU Network Neurobehavioral Scale
Published on: August 25, 2014
Evaluation of the enuretic child
1Department of Pediatric Urology, Children's National Medical Center, Washington, D.C. 20010.
Insights
Nocturnal enuresis, or bedwetting, is influenced by various factors. A thorough evaluation including medical history and family background is crucial for effective treatment of enuretic children.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Urology
- Psychology
Background:
- Nocturnal enuresis is a common childhood condition with multifactorial causes.
- Environmental, physical, and psychosocial factors contribute to bedwetting.
- A family history of enuresis is frequently observed in affected children.
Purpose of the Study:
- To outline the essential components of an initial workup for children experiencing nocturnal enuresis.
- To emphasize the importance of a comprehensive evaluation for effective treatment planning.
Main Methods:
- Physical examination.
- Detailed voiding, psychosocial, and family history assessment.
- Urinalysis and urine culture to rule out infections and other disorders.
Main Results:
- Daytime voiding symptoms may indicate underlying voiding dysfunction.
- Family history and socioeconomic factors can be associated with enuresis incidence.
- Physician understanding of child and family attitudes is key.
Conclusions:
- A comprehensive evaluation is essential for tailoring treatment to individual children and families.
- Addressing parental attitudes and providing education are important aspects of management.
- Early and thorough assessment facilitates effective management of nocturnal enuresis.
Abstract:
Nocturnal enuresis is a symptom of environmental, physical, and psychosocial factors. In addition to a physical examination, the initial workup of the enuretic child should include a careful voiding, psychosocial, and family history. Studies have shown that the parents of enuretic children often have a history of enuresis. An increased incidence of enuresis has also been demonstrated in children from large families and lower socioeconomic groups. Daytime voiding symptoms (e.g., frequency, urgency, or enuresis) suggest the possibility of underlying voiding dysfunction. A complete urinalysis and urine culture also should be performed to exclude urinary infection and certain metabolic or nephrologic disorders. Finally, it is important that the treating physician understand the attitudes of both the child and the family concerning enuresis. Parents who feel that the child is at fault need to be educated and reassured. A careful, complete evaluation will allow the physician to tailor treatment to the individual child and family.
Related Concept Videos
01:26The Micturition Reflex
The process begins with bladder filling, where the bladder wall stretches as urine accumulates. This stretching activates the urine storage reflex, mediated by the sacral spinal segments and the pontine storage center. Efferent sympathetic impulses stimulate the detrusor muscle to relax and the internal urethral sphincter to contract, facilitating urine...
01:21Nursing Assessment of the Genitourinary System I: Health History
01:26Nursing Assessment of the Genitourinary System II: Inspection and Palpation
01:22Nursing Assessment of the Genitourinary System III: Percussion and Auscultation
01:26Nephrotic Syndrome II : Assessment and Medical Management
01:28Urinary Tract Calculi V: Nursing Management