An update on the AHCPR guideline implementation.

Publication in 1992 of national Clinical Practice Guidelines for Urinary Incontinence in Adults by the US Department of Health and Human Services, Agency for Health Care Policy and Research (AHCPR) brought together in one document, for the first time, all the relevant material on the diagnosis and treatment of urinary incontinence. These guidelines also provided data about the effectiveness of various treatment options. Dissemination has been enhanced through massive distribution to professional and lay groups as well as making copies available at no charge by telephone (1-800-358-9295). Because of the volume of new research on incontinence, the guidelines are now being revised and updated with publication expected in 1995. This guideline is especially relevant for nursing because nurses are often the first, and may be the only, health professional with whom patients will discuss this embarrassing problem.