Bite-Sized Learning returns this week and looks at the close links between managing continence and falls prevention. 

A patient was transferred to one of our Intermediate Care Units following a hospital admission for continence problems. He had been catheterised whilst in hospital, and was trialling the use of Conveen catheters at the time of his transfer. During the next seven weeks he fell several times, so a deep dive into why the falls happened was carried out.

His continence and the catheter were found to be a significant contributory factor to the falls. The catheter leaked intermittently and he fell trying to change his clothing or as he was trying to empty the bag himself.

A  clear plan should have been in place regarding emptying the catheter and supporting fitting of the catheter at an earlier point in the episode of care.

An alternative method of urine containment could have been explored in a more timely manner.

In summary: Managing continence is an important part of preventing falls, and all patients at risk of falling should have a clear continence care plan to help maintain their safety and dignity.