Philosophy

An individual’s personal beliefs and values may affect the management of continence. It may be that an individual’s values and beliefs will lead them to request clinical procedures which others may feel are not in their best interests. It may also be the case that they will refuse treatment which will greatly benefit them. Modesty is greatly valued in some religions and cultures which must be taken into consideration when caring for any individual.   4) Describe ways to protect an individual’s privacy whilst managing continence. Active participation is a way of working that recognises an individual’s right to choose. This will help when working towards maintaining privacy and dignity. Giving an individual the right to participate and become an active partner in their own care will enable them to maintain their own privacy. There are several points that must be taken into consideration when putting together a care plan for continence. Keep service users covered up whenever possible; avoid entering a room while other staffs are carrying out intimate and personal care. If it is unavoidable, knock and wait. Ensure that items others may need to access are not stored in rooms where intimate and personal care is provided. Consider developing a system that prevents other service users and staff from entering a room while intimate and personal care is being carried out, such as catches that stop doors from being pushed open easily but can be opened in an emergency.

Make time when intimate issues, such as continence care, can be discussed with other staff in private. A good example would be at staff handover, which could be held in an office. If you must discuss these issues within the earshot of others, be sensitive about language used, and your tone and volume of voice. .Avoid drawing attention to a person’s incontinence, and refrain from speaking about it unnecessarily or in front of people who do not need to know. Enable service users to wear clothing that is easy to...