Introduction to Urinary Incontinence with Disability Nursing Diagnosis
Urinary incontinence is a common problem associated with physical disability. It can result in loss of self-confidence, impaired quality of life and an increase in healthcare costs. In order to ensure the best possible care, it is important that nurses are familiar with the NANDA Nursing Diagnosis of Urinary Incontinence Associated With Disability.
NANDA Nursing Diagnosis Definition
Urinary Incontinence Associated With Disability
The state in which a person experiences an inability to control urination due to disability.
Defining Characteristics (Subjective & Objective)
- Subjective – Patients may report an inability to control urine flow and/or an inability to empty their bladder completely.
- Objective – Doctors may observe the presence of wet clothing or bed linens and the patient’s expression of distress related to incontinence.
Related Factors
- Impairment in cognitive functioning
- Impairment in sensation
- Impaired mobility of lower extremities
- Impairment in communication
- Irritating medications
Explanation: Individuals with disabilities often have difficulty controlling their bladder due to reduced muscular strength and impaired sensation.
Risk Population
- Age-related
- Cognitive impairment
- Physical disability
- Multiple sclerosis
- Stroke
- Spinal cord injury or disease
Explanation: Disabilities can restrict bladder control due to impaired sensation or poor muscle control.
Associated Problems
- Urinary tract infections
- Skin breakdown
- Dehydration
- Emotional distress
- Fear of the diagnosis
Explanation: Patients with urinary incontinence are at risk for experiencing additional problems such as urinary tract infections, skin breakdown, and emotional distress. Additionally, patients may experience fear of the diagnosis which can impede communication with health care providers.
Suggestions for Use
- Assessment of patients who present with symptoms of urinary incontinence.
- Design of individualized nursing care plans.
- Identification of interventions focus on promoting improved bladder control.
Explanation: This NANDA Nursing Diagnosis should be used when assessing and treating a patient who presents with symptoms of urinary incontinence related to a physical disability. It should also be used when designing individualized care plans focusing on improving bladder control. Additionally, this nursing diagnosis can help nurses identify interventions that target bladder control.
Suggested Alternative NANDA Nursing Diagnoses
- Risk for Infection
- Activity Intolerance
- Impaired Physical Mobility
- Ineffective Coping
- Disturbed Body Image
- Pain
Explanation: These diagnoses can be applied when caring for patients who experience urinary incontinence due to physical disabilities. Each diagnosis provides insight into the various impacts urinary incontinence has on patient health.
Usage Tips
- Appropriate teaching methods should be incorporated into care plans.
- Educational materials should be tailored to the patient’s knowledge level and illness.
- Be aware of how medications can affect bladder control.
- Review the patient’s history to understand more about their condition.
- Use appropriate interventions such as medication management and Kegel exercises.
NOC Outcomes
- Knowledge: Disease Process
- Bladder Control Self-Control
- Body Image
- Intervention Efficacy
- Coping
- Satisfactory Elimination
Explanation: These outcomes provide an assessment of the patient’s progress specific to urinary incontinence associated with disability and their progress towards meeting the goal of the care plan.
NIC Intervention
- Assessment of Bladder Capacity and/or Needed Voiding Intervals
- Assessment of Sleep and Activity Patterns Related to Voiding
- Patient Education About Medications Effecting Bladder Control
- Kegel Exercises for Bladder Control Training
- Management of Bowel Impaction (When Necessary)
- Promotion of Follow-Up Care
- Instruction on Bladder Retraining Programs
Explanation: These interventions should be included in the care plan and provide an overview of the methods used to help patients manage their bladder incontinence and replace unsatisfactory elimination with satisfactory elimination.
Conclusion
Nurses need to be familiar with the NANDA Nursing Diagnosis of Urinary Incontinence Associated with Disability in order to provide the best possible care for patients. Utilization of this nursing diagnosis ensures that appropriate assessment, management, and interventions are put into practice ensuring satisfactory elimination and improved quality of life.
FAQ
- What is Urinary Incontinence Associated With Disability?
- Which patients are at risk for urinary incontinence due to physical disability?
- What interventions can be included in the care plan to help manage urinary incontinence associated with disability?