Continence is a private subject for many people, and it can cause some uneasiness for people when discussing this.However, it is one of the most common and most manageable conditions of community nursing support. Handled well, the right support protects dignity, comfort and independence.Â
What continence support includes
Continence support can include assessment of bladder and bowel needs, developing a continence management plan, helping select and use continence aids, skin-care and hygiene support to prevent complications, and education for you and your family and your carers. A community nurse approaches this in a practical and respectful manner, while ensuring you feel comfortable and in control of the situation.
A continence assessment
Good support starts with a proper assessment, often by a continence nurse or continence-trained professional. An assessment helps identify, what's happening?, what's causing it?, and the appropriate aid, a routine, a referral, or a combination. A plan is developed and reviewed regularly, making changes whenever necessary.
When continence support is funded
Where continence needs relate to your disability and aren't the ordinary responsibility of the health system, support and certain consumables can be funded through the NDIS. Disability-related consumables such as continence aids can be included, subject to your plan and current NDIS rules. For the funding overview, see our community nursing guidelines.
Support that protects dignity
The most important part of continence support isn't clinical, it's the respect with which it's delivered. A good nurse makes a sensitive subject feel ordinary and manageable, and helps you stay as independent as possible.
FAQs
Can the NDIS pay for continence products?
Disability-related continence aids can be funded as consumables, subject to your plan and the current NDIS rules.
Who does a continence assessment?
Usually, a nurse or continence-trained professional, who then develops a management plan with you.
Is continence support embarrassing to arrange?
No, It's a routine, common part of community nursing. Confidentiality and respect are at the center of all care provided.Â
Can support help me stay independent?
Yes, the right plan and aids are designed to support your independence and comfort, not to overtake it.