An 80-year-old female patient says to the nurse, I can't hold my ...

[serike]

An 80-year-old female patient says to the nurse, I can't hold my water very well so I don't leave the house much. What is an appropriate nursing response?
 
  1. This is not something you have to live with. Talk with your doctor about this problem.
  2. I understand.
  3. I guess it's hard getting older.
  4. Do you get enjoyment out of watching television?

Question 2

A female patient is admitted with multiple medical problems and incontinence, regardless of the position or situation. For which type of incontinence should the nurse plan care?
 
  1. total
  2. urge
  3. stress
  4. overflow

[beccamahon]

Answer to Question 1

Correct Answer: 1
Although urinary incontinence rarely causes serious physical effects, it frequently has significant psychosocial effects, and can lead to lowered self-esteem, social isolation, and even institutionalizatio n. Patients should be informed that urinary incontinence is not a normal consequence of aging and that treatments are available. The nurse must give a response that addresses the problem while showing empathy. Asking the patient about television viewing has no relevance.

Answer to Question 2

Correct Answer: 1
Total incontinence is the loss of all voluntary control over urination, and urine loss occurs without stimulus and in all positions. Urge incontinence is associated with a strong urge to void. Stress incontinence is the result of coughing or laughing. Overflow incontinence results from an inability to empty the bladder and is characterized by overdistention and the loss of small amounts of urine.