BLADDER TRAINING

Bladder Training

  1. Determine patient’s desire/capacity to participate in such a program.
  2. Encourage patient to void at certain times throughout the day (q2h then q3h, when getting up in morning, after meals, before bedtime).
  3. Do not decrease fluid intake (would put patient at risk for infection).
  4. Encourage patient to resist voiding when bladder is not full (use a technique such as counting while voiding and trying to increase that number to a desired level).
  5. Encourage patient to ask for assistance when needed, to avoid falls when attempting to get to toilet alone while unsteady on feet.
  6. Respond to requests for assistance.
  7. Decrease caffeine and alcohol in diet.
  8. Monitor for skin breakdown in patients who are incontinent.
  9. Have patient practice Kegel exercises to improve tone and function of pelvic floor.
  10. Refer to physical therapist who specializes in this area, if necessary.

BOWEL TRAINING

Bowel Training

  1. Verify that the patient is not impacted.
  2. Determine patient’s desire/capacity to participate in the program.
  3. Determine normal bowel habits.
  4. Increase fiber and fluids in the diet.
  5. Establish a routine: same time each day.
  6. Give stool softener, cathartic, or suppository as ordered.
  7. Offer patient a hot drink before set time for defecation.
  8. Provide time and privacy.
  9. Encourage position that will facilitate defecation (sitting position is best, leaning forward without straining).
  10. Document interventions that are successful.