Adult incontinence containment products are frequently used for continent patients (especially women) with low mobility. Yet the literature associates their use with multiple adverse outcomes including diminished self-esteem and perceived quality of life, and higher incidence rates of dermatitis, pressure wounds and urinary tract infections. Among older adults, nurses should conduct a thorough assessment to determine the risk of such outcomes before initiating or continuing the use of incontinence containment products. The development of a continence care plan should be a shared decision-making process that includes the known wishes of clients regarding care needs and the perspectives of carers and the health care team.
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