AI Article Synopsis
- Incontinence is common in hospitals, but the use and effectiveness of continence aids like pads and catheters among inpatients, particularly those 55 and older, is not well understood.
- A study of 355 hospital inpatients, primarily 75 years old, found that 46% used continence aids, which increased to 58% for those over 75, with all-in-one pads being the most prevalent (31%).
- However, 45% of aid use was deemed inappropriate, with older age as the only clear predictor, highlighting the need for improved management of continence aids in hospital settings.
Article Abstract
Although incontinence is common in hospital, the prevalence and predictors of continence aid use (continence wear and catheters) are poorly described. A one-day cross-sectional study was conducted in a large university hospital assessing consecutive inpatients (≥55) for their pre-admission and current use of continence aids. Barthel Index, Clinical Frailty Scale and Charlson Co-morbidity scores were recorded. Appropriateness was defined by local guidelines. 355 inpatients, median age 75±17 years, were included; 53% were male. Continence aid use was high; prevalence was 46% increasing to 58% for those ≥75. All-in-one pads were the most common, an overall prevalence of 31%. Older age, lower Barthel and higher frailty scores were associated with continence aid use in multivariate analysis. Inappropriate use of aids was high at 45% with older age being the only independent predictor. Continence aids are often used inappropriately during hospitalisation by older patients. Concerted efforts are required to address this issue.
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| http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.gerinurse.2021.02.008 | DOI Listing |
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