Infection Prevention & Incontinence Care

March 23, 2022

Infection Prevention & Incontinence Care

Across the country and around the world many people suffer from incontinence.  The symptoms and effects of this condition can prove to be unpredictable,  frustrating, and embarrassing. 

While quite often incontinence is a symptom of another condition or illness, those impacted by it are also at risk for other issues - including infections. The definition of infection prevention from WHO, “Infection prevention and control (IPC) is a practical, evident-based approach which prevents patients and health workers from being harmed by avoidable infection as a result of antimicrobial resistance.” There are different types of infection control. Below we have shared some tips and tricks for improving the care for those who are battling incontinence to protect them from infections.

Skin Infections are Painful

Quite often those who suffer from incontinence experience leakage of both urine and stool. As you would imagine, the areas of the body most at risk are those that would be impacted by the leaking (genitals, rectum, pelvis, buttocks, etc).

When leakage occurs those areas of the body get wet.  When the moisture remains on the skin, issues including yeast infections become possible. For those who suffer from incontinence, keeping the skin in these areas dry and clean is imperative - particularly after using the restroom. Wash the entire area with a mild soap, rinse thoroughly and dry completely. There are a host of products on the marketplace that are gentle on the skin.  Also, consider moisturizing the area daily to prevent the skin from drying and cracking which makes it more susceptible to infection.

If you or the person for whom you care notices skin irritation, a visit to the doctor is in order. Efficient and effective treatment can help heal the area and medication can clear up any infections. Acting quickly is key; don’t let the situation worsen.

Urinary Tract Infections are an Issue

Those who suffer from incontinence are also prone to urinary tract infections (UTIs). Once again, keeping the skin clean and dry is an excellent start to preventing this incredibly uncomfortable illness.

Caused by bacteria transferring from the genital area to the urethra and ultimately the bladder, these infections can also be the result of poor hygiene.  Because those who suffer from incontinence experience leakage, they are at particular risk.

Once again, you should always change clothing if leakage or an accident occurs.  Additionally, wash the impacted area thoroughly and rinse with clean and clear water.  Always dry it thoroughly - dampness is a breeding ground for the bacteria that cause UTIs.

​​AT LIQUAGUARD® WE UNDERSTAND THAT INCONTINENCE CAN BE FRUSTRATING AND EMBARRASSING, AND A TRIGGER FOR POSSIBLY SERIOUS INFECTIONS. INFECTION PREVENTION IS HARD AND WE WANT TO HELP.  WE RECOGNIZE HOW DIFFICULT IT CAN BE TO MANAGE, BOTH PHYSICALLY AND EMOTIONALLY. WE ENCOURAGE OUR CUSTOMERS TO CONSULT WITH THEIR PHYSICIANS AND WE ARE PROUD TO SUPPLY A BROAD RANGE OF PRODUCTS TO MAKE LIVING WITH INCONTINENCE A LITTLE BIT EASIER.

VISIT OUR WEBSITE TO SEE OUR COMPLETE INVENTORY. AND, CALL US WITH QUESTIONS. WE LOOK FORWARD TO HELPING YOU FIND THE BEST PRODUCTS FOR YOUR NEEDS. WE CAN HELP IMPROVE YOUR QUALITY OF LIFE.

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