An older adult client in a long-term care facility has dementia and begins to have frequent episodes of urinary incontinence. After the provider finds no medical cause for his incontinence, which of the following interventions should the nurse initiate to manage this behavior?
Explanation & Rationale
A. Request a prescription for an indwelling urinary catheter: Indwelling catheters are associated with high risks of urinary tract infections, skin breakdown, and reduced mobility. They are not recommended for management of incontinence in older adults with dementia unless medically necessary. B. Use adult diapers to prevent frequent clothing changes: While adult diapers can manage the consequences of incontinence, they do not address the underlying behavioral pattern or help maintain continence. Overreliance on diapers can increase skin irritation and reduce opportunities for bladder retraining. C. Remind the client to tell the nurse when he has to urinate: Clients with dementia may have difficulty recognizing or communicating the need to void. Relying on verbal reminders alone is often ineffective for maintaining continence in this population. D. Take the client to the bathroom on an every-2-hr schedule: Scheduled toileting is an evidence-based intervention for managing functional incontinence in older adults with dementia. It helps maintain continence, reduces accidents, and supports bladder training while promoting dignity and independence.