Incontinence is as much of a mental health issue as it is a physical one. As a caregiver, it is important to remember that incontinence can be hard for a patient to deal with. It is usually associated with shame or loss of dignity, and can lead to feelings of losing control and low self-esteem. Keeping this in mind when a patient has an accident is a large part of complete patient care.
By being sensitive to patient feelings and not getting upset or embarrassed yourself, you are helping the patient on many levels. Also, by providing them with disposable incontinence products, such as pant and furniture liners, you are helping them stay dry which reduces skin irritation keeping patients physically healthy, keeps the furniture sanitary, and provides them with a better quality of life.
While working with patients, the caregiver can actually encourage them to maintain their independent life, which helps the caregiver as well as the patient. For many patients, being incontinent does not mean that life has to stop, it just needs to be adjusted. Incontinence products allow patients to continue going out to lunch, or visiting with friends for an afternoon. Most products are easily disposable and portable, allowing patients to go about business as usual.
For more information on incontinence products, browse our website, or call 1-888-687-4334 to speak with one of our knowledgeable Medical Supply Representatives for more information.