Let’s face it; the bladder is not a dinner conversation starter for most folks. But, when not cared for properly, the bladder has a way of commanding our attention.
Many of us are all too familiar with the excruciating spasms experienced at the onset of a urinary tract infection. (Who knew the bladder had the strength to create that much pain?) And heaven help those who sneeze or cough at inopportune moments. For those who have spent hours caring for patients, while ignoring our own needs, a price is paid for disregarding the nagging calls of nature. And do we care for our bladders by drinking enough liquids? For some of us, the answer is of course not. That would mean more trips to the bathroom. Who has time for that when you’re standing in an OR for eight hours straight or running from patient room to patient room during a busy 12-hour shift?
Obesity, caffeine consumption and smoking also have an impact on bladder health. In one study, published in the New England Journal of Medicine in 2009, it was discussed that a weight loss of greater than 5% correlated to at least a 50% reduction in the frequency of urinary incontinence. Although there is limited research, one study that was conducted revealed consuming less caffeine reduced the number of incontinence episodes in the study group. And smoking is known to cause kidney and bladder cancers.
Bladder health is important to everyone’s overall health. And to care for our patients, we need to care for ourselves with a clear understanding of the bladder’s health needs. For those we care for, bladder health issues can be addressed with effective patient education.
As our cover story tells us, bladder issues do not garner the attention of public health the way heart disease and other illnesses do. However, there are recent, expert efforts springing up to change this. Because billions of healthcare dollars are spent in the U.S. on this issue annually, UI now is being addressed more aggressively.
Prevention is the key to success. Pelvic floor exercises can prevent UI and improve this issue for some women. Kegel exercises, when done regularly and correctly, can keep those important muscles toned and prevent problems later in life. Drinking adequate fluids and emptying the bladder often are easy ways to help maintain bladder health.
Perhaps early education regarding maintaining a healthy weight, consuming caffeine in moderation and quitting smoking, partnered with a routine pelvic-floor exercise program can change the future of bladder health. Start with yourself. Take care of your personal bladder needs, and then educate your patients.
And the next time nature calls, take time to answer. Your bladder matters. •
Many of us are all too familiar with the excruciating spasms experienced at the onset of a urinary tract infection. (Who knew the bladder had the strength to create that much pain?) And heaven help those who sneeze or cough at inopportune moments. For those who have spent hours caring for patients, while ignoring our own needs, a price is paid for disregarding the nagging calls of nature. And do we care for our bladders by drinking enough liquids? For some of us, the answer is of course not. That would mean more trips to the bathroom. Who has time for that when you’re standing in an OR for eight hours straight or running from patient room to patient room during a busy 12-hour shift?
Obesity, caffeine consumption and smoking also have an impact on bladder health. In one study, published in the New England Journal of Medicine in 2009, it was discussed that a weight loss of greater than 5% correlated to at least a 50% reduction in the frequency of urinary incontinence. Although there is limited research, one study that was conducted revealed consuming less caffeine reduced the number of incontinence episodes in the study group. And smoking is known to cause kidney and bladder cancers.
Bladder health is important to everyone’s overall health. And to care for our patients, we need to care for ourselves with a clear understanding of the bladder’s health needs. For those we care for, bladder health issues can be addressed with effective patient education.
As our cover story tells us, bladder issues do not garner the attention of public health the way heart disease and other illnesses do. However, there are recent, expert efforts springing up to change this. Because billions of healthcare dollars are spent in the U.S. on this issue annually, UI now is being addressed more aggressively.
Prevention is the key to success. Pelvic floor exercises can prevent UI and improve this issue for some women. Kegel exercises, when done regularly and correctly, can keep those important muscles toned and prevent problems later in life. Drinking adequate fluids and emptying the bladder often are easy ways to help maintain bladder health.
Perhaps early education regarding maintaining a healthy weight, consuming caffeine in moderation and quitting smoking, partnered with a routine pelvic-floor exercise program can change the future of bladder health. Start with yourself. Take care of your personal bladder needs, and then educate your patients.
And the next time nature calls, take time to answer. Your bladder matters. •
Cheryl Portner, RN, MSN, is vice president, staff development & training/nurse executive, Gannett Healthcare Group
