A continence assessment is the first step toward finding practical, personalised solutions for bladder or bowel challenges. It’s a professional evaluation carried out by an experienced continence nurse who takes the time to understand your individual needs, lifestyle and health background.

Many people delay seeking help because they feel embarrassed, but continence issues are incredibly common. With the right support, they can be managed effectively. A continence assessment gives you clarity and a plan to move forward confidently.  

Why a continence assessment matters

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Living with bladder or bowel concerns can affect elements of daily life, from leaving the house to socialising or getting a good night’s sleep. A continence assessment helps you understand what’s happening, why it’s happening and what can be done to improve it.

It’s not just about medical details; it’s about restoring comfort and self-assurance. With professional support, you can reduce accidents, improve routine and feel more in control.

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What happens during a continence assessment

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Every assessment is private, respectful and led at your pace. Your continence nurse will begin with a friendly conversation to learn about your symptoms, daily habits and any concerns you might have.

You might be asked about:

• Toilet frequency, timing and urgency

• Fluid intake and diet

• Medications or recent surgeries

• Mobility or access to toilets

• Current continence products or aids

Depending on your needs, your nurse may also complete a physical check or request bladder diaries to understand patterns and triggers better. Everything is explained clearly and you’re welcome to ask questions at any time.

Creating your continence care plan

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After your assessment, your nurse will prepare a continence care plan. This is a personalised guide to help you manage symptoms and make positive changes.

This plan may include:

• Recommendations for toileting routines or schedules

• Bladder or bowel training strategies

• Dietary and hydration guidance

• Product advice (pads, catheters, aids or equipment)

• Referrals to specialists if needed

If you’re accessing continence care through the NDIS, your nurse can also prepare a detailed report to support your funding needs or plan review.

Who can benefit from a continence assessment

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A continence assessment can help anyone who experiences bladder or bowel changes, including:

• Adults with incontinence, urgency or leakage

• Children who are struggling with toilet training

• People recovering from illness, surgery or injury

• Older adults or aged care clients managing chronic conditions

• NDIS participants seeking formal support or funding
  

If you’re unsure whether an assessment is right for you, it’s worth having a conversation. Even small improvements in continence can make a big difference to comfort and wellbeing.

How to prepare for your appointment

Before your assessment, you can help your nurse by:

• Keeping a short diary of your toilet habits and fluid intake for a few days

• Bringing a list of medications or relevant health information

• Writing down any questions or concerns you’d like to discuss

Your nurse is there to support you, not judge you. The more you share, the more personalised and effective your plan will be.

A supportive step forward

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Taking the first step toward continence support can feel daunting, but most people feel relief after their first assessment. Having someone listen, explain and provide clear direction can transform how you manage your health and daily comfort.

At Continence with Care, we focus on gentle, professional guidance that helps you feel seen, heard and supported every step of the way.