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QX | Dealer Customer Service Program MODULE 1
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Strategies for Managing Incontinence
Scheduled voiding is a strategy used to help people who cannot get to the toilet on their own. An
individualized schedule is developed for someone to take the person to the toilet at specifi c times, usually every
two to three hours. This strategy can help decrease the number of incontinence episodes.
Bladder retraining can be used with individuals who are aware of the urge to go to the bathroom and have
the ability and desire to control the urge. A schedule is developed for someone to take the person to the toilet at
specifi c times. In between the scheduled toileting, the individual works on controlling the urge to void.
Prompted voiding can successfully help people with incontinence have fewer episodes of incontinence and
increase their awareness of a full bladder. Again, an individualized schedule is developed, and the individual is
prompted to go to the bathroom at specifi c times.
Pelvic fl oor muscle exercises, known as Kegels, can strengthen muscles to prevent urine from leaking
out of the bladder. These exercises are very effective with stress and urge incontinence. Individuals who can
understand and follow directions can do these exercises.
Avoiding bladder irritants, such as caffeine, alcohol and carbonated beverages may decrease the number
of incontinence episodes.
Some medications can also affect bladder function. Advise customers to speak with their physician about
how their medication might affect incontinence.
3. National Association for Continence website. Available at: http://www.nafc.org/index.php?page=facts-statistics. Accessed August 17,
2011.
DidYouKnow?
Incontinence is the second leading reason residents are placed in nursing homes.
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