Incontinence

Definition

Incontinence is the involuntary loss of urine (urinary incontinence) or stool (fecal incontinence). It is a common and often underreported problem, especially in elderly and postpartum populations.

Types of Urinary Incontinence

• Stress: Leakage with coughing, sneezing, exercise (pelvic floor weakness).
• Urge: Sudden strong urge with leakage (overactive bladder).
• Overflow: Dribbling from full bladder (BPH, neurogenic bladder).
• Functional: Inability to reach toilet (mobility, cognition).
• Mixed: Combination.

Nursing Interventions

• Toileting schedule every 2 to 4 hours
• Pelvic floor (Kegel) exercises for stress incontinence
• Bladder training for urge incontinence
• Absorbent products, barrier creams, frequent skin assessment
• Address modifiable factors: caffeine, carbonated beverages, smoking
• Medications (anticholinergics for urge; mirabegron)

NCLEX Relevance

Skin integrity protection. Kegels for stress; bladder training for urge.