Assessment and Treatment of Urinary Incontinence

Abstract

Significant numbers of persons cared for in the hospital have urinary incontinence. Despite the prevalence of this clinically significant condition, many persons with urinary incontinence receive neither assessment nor treatment for the condition during the hospital stay. This article discusses acute and chronic urinary incontinence among hospitalized patients. Strategies to manage acute urinary incontinence during the hospital stay are described. Palliative strategies to manage chronic incontinence, which should be followed up by a referral to a specialist for definitive treatment, are also reviewed.