Addressing Incontinence in Home Health: An
Occupational Therapist's Perspective
Presented by Krista Covell-Pierson
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Incontinence in older adults increases fall risk, potential urinary tract infections, skin breakdown, depression, social withdrawal, fatigue, and embarrassment. Occupational therapy professionals can improve clients’ quality of life by addressing bowel and urinary incontinence more thoroughly when the client is enrolled in home health. If OT professionals do not integrate incontinence treatment strategies into their interventions, clients with the issues listed above are put at risk unnecessarily, and it can even lead to re-hospitalizations.
Please note: at the time of filming, occupational therapy practitioners did not complete OASIS assessments. As of January 2022, occupational therapy practitioners can now perform this task. Please refer to this course for more information: OASIS-E: Sections H, I, J, and K
Meet your instructor
Krista Covell-Pierson
Krista Covell-Pierson, OTR/L, BCB-PMD, owns an innovative private practice, Covell Care and Rehabilitation, which aims to help adult and older adult clients become safer, more independent, and engaged in the home and community through a unique and one-of-a-kind model. Krista developed this model from the ground up, and it…
Chapters & learning objectives
1. Understanding Incontinence
In this chapter, therapists will learn how to assess urinary and bowel incontinence appropriately when meeting a new client. It's important to watch for clues that may indicate incontinence issues when assessing a client. Normalizing the conversation for the client and building rapport will also be covered.
2. Evaluations and Inquiry
This chapter aims to normalize the conversation about incontinence and build rapport with the client. Assessing the client's environment related to incontinence and identifying risk factors are covered.
3. Teaching Clients About Pelvic Anatomy and Urinary/Bowel Function
This chapter reviews the pelvic anatomy and urinary/bowel function. Normal bladder and bowel habits are discussed, as well as how to educate on different types of incontinence.
4. Treating Bowel Dysfunction: The Basics for OTs
This chapter provides an overview of tools and handouts to use while investigating the bowel habits of a client. Understanding the role of fiber and knowing common bowel irritants are also covered.
5. Treating Bladder Dysfunction: The Basics for OTs
This chapter reviews clients' specific urination habits to identify the incontinence type they're experiencing. The urge suppression technique and incorporating pelvic floor exercise programs are included.
6. Helpful Hints and Tips
This chapter discusses how to balance incontinence with additional goal areas. Strategies to integrate into social and community activities are also covered.