Elimination Support in Assistive Care: Patient-Centered Skills and Diagnostics

Elimination

The process by which the body removes waste products; includes urination and bowel movements.

Incontinence

Inability to control urination or defecation, often a concern with aging.

Nocturia

Increased frequency of urination at night, common in older adults.

Dysuria

Pain or burning sensation during urination, may indicate infection.

Constipation

Infrequent or difficult bowel movements, often characterized by hard stools.

Intake and Output (I&O)

The measurement of fluids consumed (intake) and eliminated (output) by a person.

Urinary tract infections (UTIs)

Infections that can occur when urine is retained in the bladder.

Moisture-associated skin damage

Skin damage caused by prolonged moisture from urine or stool exposure.

Pelvic floor muscles

Muscles that support the bladder and are involved in urinary control.

Timely toileting

Scheduled toileting to anticipate a person's needs and prevent accidents.

Perineal care

Cleaning of the genital and anal areas to prevent infection and skin breakdown.

Ostomy

A surgically created opening in the abdomen for waste elimination via a stoma.

Cloudy urine

Urine that appears unclear or murky, may indicate infection or other issues.

Hematuria

The presence of blood in urine, which requires immediate reporting.

Foul odor urine

Unusual smell of urine, particularly when accompanied by other symptoms.

Elderly skin fragility

The condition of older skin, which is thinner and more prone to damage.

Pressure injuries

Wounds that occur when skin is damaged due to prolonged pressure or moisture.

Urinal (for bed use)

A container for urination that allows usage while lying in bed.

Bedpan

A shallow container used by individuals who are unable to get out of bed.

Sensation changes

Alterations in the body's ability to sense things, which can occur with aging.

Fall risk

The likelihood of a person falling, often increased by urgency related to toileting.

Diarrhea

Frequent, loose, watery stools which can lead to dehydration.

Barrier cream

A protective ointment applied to skin to reduce irritation from moisture.

Fluid intake

The total amount of fluid consumed, important for hydration status.

Skin breakdown

Damage to skin integrity due to prolonged exposure to moisture or pressure.