How to give continence care
Other platforms explain it with text and video. In VMS you practice it on the patient.
Incontinence is common in older adults but is not a normal part of aging. Good care protects skin, dignity and comfort.
Step by step
Assess the problem
Ask when leaks happen and how often. Find the type: stress, urge, overflow or functional. [1]
Look for causes
Check for infection, constipation, medicines and trouble getting to the toilet. [2]
Set a schedule
Offer the toilet at regular times, such as every 2 hours, and right after meals. [3]
Make the toilet easy to reach
Use a clear path, a bedside commode or a raised seat. [2]
Protect the skin
Clean gently after each episode, dry well and use barrier cream. [4]
Respect dignity
Provide privacy, use respectful words and avoid calling products diapers. [3]
Keep fluids up
Do not restrict fluids unless ordered. Limit caffeine in the evening. [3]
Common errors
- Limiting fluids to reduce leaks.
- Leaving the patient wet.
- Using pads instead of offering the toilet.
Practice it in VMS
In VMS you do this on the patient, not on paper: every step goes on the checklist with a score, and in Teach mode Blocky tells you what comes next.
VMS cases that train this skill
Sources
- NCSBN 2026 NCLEX-RN Test Plan
- CDC STEADI (falls in older adults)
- Open RN, Nursing Fundamentals 2e (CC BY 4.0)
- Open RN, Nursing Skills 2e (Chippewa Valley Technical College) (CC BY 4.0)
Facts and steps follow CDC STEADI (falls in older adults); NCSBN 2026 NCLEX-RN Test Plan. VMS is not affiliated with these organizations. Updated: 2026-10-11.