Chapter 34: Urinary Elimination; Health Promotion/Restoration: Patient Education for a Healthy Bladder

Question 1

Maintain Adequate Hydration

Answer 1

6-8 glasses of water daily throughout the day
Avoid caffeine
Decrease nocturia- avoid drinking fluids 2 hours before bedtime
Do not limit fluids to avoid incontinence

Question 2

Keep Good Voiding Habits

Answer 2

Women: avoid hovering, sit back on toilet seat
Regular intervals, 3-4 hours
Avoid straining while voiding, or bowel elimination
Take time to empty bladder

Question 3

Keep Bowels Regular

Answer 3

Rectum full of stool may irritate the bladder

Causes urgency and frequency

Question 4

Prevent Urinary Tract Infections

Answer 4

Clean front to back
Void before and after intercourse
Avoid bubble baths
Cotton undergarments
Drink enough water to pass pale yellow urine
Shower regularly

Question 5

Smoking

Answer 5

Stop:
Reduces risk of bladder cancer
Cough, can cause stress urinary incontinence

Question 6

Health Care Provider

Answer 6

Report any changes in bladder

Habits, Frequency, Urgency, Pain, or Blood