About Incontinence - Treatment / Management Options - Urine Collection Devices for Men
Medical Reviewer: Mary Ann Anichini, GNP-BC
Some urine collection devices, worn externally, are designed specifically for the anatomy of men, including, for example, the condom catheter. There are disposable and reusable products, and some are designed specifically for use during the day while upright and walking or sitting in a wheelchair, or during the night when lying down. There are a variety of different types of products, but all are management tools and none actually treat incontinence.
Who?
If you are using an incontinence management device, it is always important to speak to a medical professional about incontinence so that you can properly rule out any serious underlying cause, and find the treatment option that works best for you. Sometimes there may not be an appropriate treatment option available, and therefore you might continue to use a collection device. Often an individual may attempt a treatment option but still needs to wear some level of protection as occasional or slight leakage still occurs (as often happens when on medication or after a surgery for the treatment of incontinence).
The Pros
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The products offer the security of knowing that should leakage occur, something is in place to collect it.
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For many people with incontinence, absorbent products and/or collection devices are the only options.
The Cons
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There is an ongoing cost associated with using products.
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You may feel self-conscious using the products due to possible bulkiness or noise.
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You might feel embarrassed buying the products.
Tips and Tricks
Skin: Keeping the skin that comes into contact with urine or BM clean and dry is important. When changing absorbent products, wash the perineal area with mild soap (not deodorant) and warm water, then pat the skin dry (do not rub). Application of a skin ointment such as A&D can further protect the skin.
Mary Ann Anichini, GNP-BC, is Senior Director of Education and Training for My Inner View. She has an undergraduate nursing degree from Loyola University of Chicago and a Masters in nursing sciences from University of Illinois School of Public Health Nursing. Mary Ann is a certified Geriatric Nurse Practitioner and has worked with older adults in community and institutional settings since 1977.
Mary Ann has been involved in the design and development of educational modules for caregivers of the frail elderly with Presbyterian Homes of Chicago, Methodist Homes and Services, The Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago, The University of Illinois School of Social Work, The National Alzheimer’s Association and The Presbyterian Homes.
In the last 10 years she has focused on the implementation of “best practices” in the long term care setting. Of greatest interest, are those practices that have the greatest potential to impact quality of life for much of the nursing home population (e.g. Restorative Nursing, Hydration, Bowel Hygiene, and Continence). Currently, Mary Ann worked with all staff at Presbyterian Homes to implement Person Centered Care as well as a Falls management program.
Page last modified 26 July 2009