National audit of continence care for older people: management of faecal incontinence

Abstract

The results of this audit indicate that the requirement for integrated continence services contained within the National Service Framework for Older People has not yet been met. Basic assessment and care by the professionals directly looking after older persons is often lacking. There is an urgent need to re-establish the fundamentals of continence care into the daily practice of medical and nursing staff, and undoubtedly, action needs to be taken with regard to the establishment of truly integrated, quality services in this neglected area of practice.