nsg

nsg · Oct 23, 2005

How would you handle urinary incontinence in a senior health care employer it you work alone in isolation together in a community?

I don't know if they're aware or not of the incontinence. I've discovered wet spots on the rug. I don't want to cause embarrassment for them, but I feel a duty not to let this to happen in front of a patient.

Editorial Team / Admin · Oct 23, 2005

I am almost 100% certain that if you are working with somone who is incontinent, they are very aware of their problem.

Your post is very vague. You are in a coummunity? What do you exactly mean?

nsg · Oct 24, 2005

I'm unsure that they are aware....there is also a question of cognitive impairment.

I work alone with the health care provider in the community(practice in office-setting) as opposed to an institution(ex. hospital).

Luv2BAnurse · Oct 24, 2005

Are you saying the other health care provider has incontinence? And there is a cognitive impairment? Speak to him/her anyway, with suggestions, or the supervisor.

Daytonite, BSN, RN · Oct 24, 2005

What I would do is sit down with this person during a quite moment, or outright tell them you need to talk with them about something. Be very careful with the tone of voice you use, try to be very empathetic, but be honest. I would probably just out and out ask,"are you having a problem with incontinence?" And, then explain what I have observed including what have seen or smelled. This is a very private and delicate kind of thing to be talking with someone about, so make sure they understand that you are going to treat this confidentially if that issue should come up. Who knows where your conversation may go from there, but I think you have to take the initiative to open the door to discussing this. If the person becomes defensive or angry, let them have those emotions. Remember, denial and anger are appropriate responses to loss, in this case loss of continence. It might be best to do this toward the end of a work day.