Policy

Our continence policy outlines how as an organization, we will approach managing bladder and bowel continence issues for individuals using our service. The policy aims to promote continence, prevent incontinence where possible, and provide comprehensive care and support for those who experience incontinence. It emphasizes dignity, respect, and the importance of individual assessments and tailored care plans, with appropriate clinical training and support for the staff.  

Key Elements of a Continence Policy:

• Focus on Promotion and Prevention:
  Continence policies prioritize preventing incontinence whenever possible and promoting continence through various strategies, such as bladder training, pelvic floor exercises, and lifestyle modifications.
• Individualized Assessments:
  A thorough assessment is crucial to understand the nature and extent of the individual's continence problem and to develop a personalized care plan.
• Multi-Professional Approach:
  Continence care often requires the expertise of various professionals, including nurses, physiotherapists, and occupational therapists, to provide comprehensive support.
• Dignity and Respect:
  The policy emphasizes maintaining the dignity and respect of individuals with continence issues, ensuring privacy and confidentiality.
• Access to Specialist Services:
  The policy should facilitate access to specialist continence advisory services or healthcare professionals for more complex cases.
• Care Planning:
  A care plan should be developed based on the individual's needs and preferences, outlining goals, strategies, and ongoing support.
• Education and Training:
  Staff training is essential to ensure they understand the principles of continence care and how to provide appropriate support.
• Monitoring and Evaluation:
  Regular monitoring and evaluation of the policy's effectiveness are necessary to ensure that standards of care are maintained and improved.
• Evidence-Based Practice:
  Continence policies should be based on the best available evidence and guidelines.
• Focus on Quality of Life:
  The policy should strive to improve the quality of life for individuals with continence issues by promoting independence, dignity, and overall well-being.

Practice

The Care Worker Agency care and support staff are expected to follow each individual's care and support needs as per the instructions in their care plan. This involves supporting them with toileting and personal hygiene activities and encouraging them to use the toilet regularly, as per their Human Rights to toilet in peace and safety.

Customers that develop issues with their toileting activities and routine must be supported by their care staff to access help and support for their ‘new normal’ and for this reason care staff must report back to the office that the customers needs have changed so we can help them to arrange appropriate intervention and support from an external relevant professional such as the continence nurse. Care and support staff may offer to help the customer to order additional continence items via their local continence service and must document what they have done in their call notes on the One Touch app.

Reviewed April 2025 by Fay Townsend-Jackson