Continence promotion for older hospital patients following surgery for fractured neck of femur: pilot of a randomized controlled trial

Clin Interv Aging. 2007;2(4):705-14.

Abstract

Evidence suggests that bladder control problems develop or worsen as a result of fractured neck of femur (#NOF) and its subsequent management. The primary aim of this study was to reduce the prevalence and severity of post surgery continence problems among patients, aged from 60-years, undergoing surgery for #NOF, using a best practice "case-management model" multifactorial intervention. Eligible consenting patients admitted with #NOF were randomized to intervention or control group. Self-report questionnaires compared pre-surgery, post surgery, and follow-up continence status between groups. This pilot randomized controlled trial, which included 45 eligible patients aged 60 to 93-years, found no evidence that the intervention was effective in reducing prevalence of post-surgery incontinence in this acute setting. Staff surveys highlighted the need for open communication between the research team and hospital staff. Unclear results were attributed to the small sample size. A central outcome was evidence that intervention to improve continence management for older people post-surgery is imperative. Focused assessment and treatment for those most at risk of incontinence after #NOF would be more acceptable to staff and a more efficient use of resources. A simple screening tool would ensure that those most at risk are detected, and targeted for care.

Publication types

  • Randomized Controlled Trial
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Female
  • Femoral Neck Fractures / surgery*
  • Humans
  • Inpatients*
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • New South Wales / epidemiology
  • Postoperative Care
  • Program Evaluation / methods
  • Urinary Incontinence / epidemiology
  • Urinary Incontinence / physiopathology
  • Urinary Incontinence / prevention & control*