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Chapter 30: Urinary Incontinence

DOI:

10.1891/9780826171481.0030

Authors

  • McLeod-Sordjan, Renee, DNP, FNP-BC, Acute Care-BC

Abstract

Urinary incontinence (UI) is a storage symptom the prevalence of which increases with age. At least 50” of those affected do not report the problem to health care professionals. UI is not solely a physical problem: it maybe debilitating psychosocially, significantly affecting quality of life. UI is associated with medical morbidity and hygienic issues. These include perineal Candida infection, cellulitis and pressure ulcers from constant skin moisture and irritation, urinary tract infections, and mechanical falls and fractures from slipping on urine. Psychosocial issues include depression, embarrassment, social isolation, impaired self-esteem, reduced activities outside the home, reduced sexual activity, and sleep disturbances. The negative impact of UI on physical activity has significant implications for prevention of cardiovascular disease and other chronic illness. Because UI is a symptom, pure prevention is not entirely realistic.