Self-report of incontinence in acute care.

Abstract

The incontinence rate was 42% in this acute care population, significantly higher than the incidence reported in studies of community dwellers and lower than the incidence reported in studies of nursing homes. However, ages, definitions of incontinence, and methods of data collection varied among the studies. Documentation of incontinence was reported as low in all of the studies. Based on findings, nurses are advised to assess and document incontinence on men and women of all ages (not just older adults) and to ask direct questions to get information. Strategies for increased awareness of urinary and fecal incontinence issues at the authors' institution after this study's results are included.