AIM OF THE STUDY

To describe the situation of residents with continence problems (CP) in two German nursing homes.

METHODS

Medical and nursing records of all residents were reviewed and categorised according to a standardised protocol. Structured interviews were performed with the responsible nursing staff of each resident. Qualitative methods like focus groups and participating observations were used to collect further information.

RESULTS

In the investigated nursing homes 177 residents with and 70 without CP were identified (81.5% women; mean age 83.7 years). For these 247 residents 57 physicians and 116 nurses or nurses-aides were in charge. 71% of female and 76% of male residents had at least one CP. The three most common CP among residents were combined urinary and faecal incontinence (32%), urinary incontinence (21%), and urinary catheters (17%). Residents with CP were significantly more dependent in functional abilities like toileting, dressing or cognitive function than those without CP (P<0.01). In a high proportion of residents with CP physicians (64%) were not consulted nor were relatives (86%) involved in continence related activities.

CONCLUSION

Nursing home residents are commonly affected by continence problems which are associated with functional dependency and relevant co-morbidity. The public and expert debate on continence problems of nursing home residents has to be promoted to achieve long-term changes.