Implementing an incontinence management protocol in long-term care. Clinical outcomes and costs.

This article describes clinical outcomes and costs of implementing an incontinence management protocol based on the recommendations contained in the Agency for Health Care Quality and Research clinical practice guidelines on incontinence and pressure ulcer prevention. Following implementation of the protocol, 63 nursing home residents were followed for 6 months and assessed for the presence of wetness or pressure ulcers. Facility costs for incontinence management were accumulated.