Redefining Continence Care: A Smarter Approach
A Danish municipality has taken a pioneering approach to continence care by shifting towards the use of shaped pads. This strategic move, in collaboration with ABENA, has resulted in improved resident comfort, fewer leakages, and reduced caregiver workload. Since implementing these changes in 2015, the municipality has maintained a stable number of product allocations despite an increasing elderly population.
Why Use Shaped Pads?
Shaped pads offer several advantages over traditional closed products:
Fewer leaks: With proper placement, shaped pads have been shown to reduce leakage incidents. "Previously, we used the large and closed diapers to be on the safe side, but today we generally choose the shaped pads, which is more comfortable to wear – and here we have documented that it actually results in fewer leaks, as long as it is positioned correctly." – Social and Health Care Assistant
Improved skin health: Enhanced breathability helps prevent infections and skin conditions such as dermatitis.
More dignity and comfort: Residents report feeling more comfortable in shaped pads.
Increased efficiency: Caregivers save valuable time during changes, allowing them to focus more on quality care. "With one specific resident, we were able to save an entire hour on diaper changes by switching from a closed product to a shaped pad. That’s a significant amount of time that can now be used to add more value to the resident’s care." – Nurse and Social Worker for Disability Incontinence
A Well-Organized Implementation Strategy
Success did not happen overnight. A structured approach was key:
- Cross-sector collaboration: Strong coordination between different care teams ensured consistency in product use. "We have organized ourselves well and ensured close communication across the continence efforts throughout the municipality. This is an important foundation to establish when presenting new ideas and workflows." – Continence Nurse
- Training and education: Regular courses and workshops were conducted to demonstrate correct application techniques and maximize the benefits of shaped pads. "We have also scheduled regular courses and theme days in our calendar, where we all have the opportunity to share experiences. It is during these sessions that we can demonstrate the concrete benefits of the shaped pads and go into detail about proper application, which is crucial for achieving success with the product." – Continence Nurse
- Gradual adaptation: Shifting away from traditional methods required time and reinforcement, making systematic implementation essential. "Repetition over an extended period has been very important for our process. You don’t change habits in a staff group overnight – it’s a long and systematic process where the benefits for both the residents and the staff need to be demonstrated multiple times." – Continence Nurse
Real-World Impact: Success Stories from the Municipality
At a local care center, caregivers initially favored larger, closed incontinence products as a precaution. However, after switching to the shaped pads, they observed a significant reduction in leaks - provided the products were applied correctly.
In the home care sector, an evaluation of existing allocations led to many residents transitioning to smaller, more suitable products. This not only improved their comfort but also optimized product usage. "Many residents have been using the same product for years, but it’s important to check in regularly, as their needs may have changed. Perhaps a closed product is no longer necessary. For some, change can be a challenge, but through open dialogue and testing of the shaped pads, we’ve seen many residents downsize by three to four sizes, to their great satisfaction." – Social and Health Care Assistant
Care staff have embraced the change, recognizing the benefits not just for residents but also for themselves. "Time is incredibly scarce and valuable in the care sector, so a solution must show its value before the care staff invests effort into changing workflows. I think the care staff has really embraced the shaped pads; today, they request the shaped pads first." – Continence Nurse
(All quotes have been anonymized)
Looking Ahead
This municipality’s experience highlights the potential for improved continence care through thoughtful product selection and structured implementation. By prioritizing both resident well-being and caregiver efficiency, they have set a strong example for future healthcare initiatives.
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Incontinence is the involuntary loss or leakage of urine or feces. Incontinence can affect anyone and can have various causes. It is not a disease, but a symptom.
