Manual of Policies and Procedures for Wade Nursing Registry

Helping Client Maintain Normal Urination

• Make sure the path to the bathroom is direct and free of clutter
• Place commode, urinal, or bedpan at the bedside
• Offer toileting at time when the person usually needs to void
• Keep walker or crutches nearby so they can be used when needed
• Attend to client's needs to void immediately; do not make client wait
• Give client adequate amount of fluids, eight glasses of fluid a day
• Reduce intake of fluids and foods that irritate urinary bladder and increase urinary frequency, such as coffee, tea, sodas, alcohol, chocolate, and large amount of sugar
• Provide privacy (close door, pull curtains)
• Give clients enough time to urinate, but don't let them sit on the bedpan, toilet, or commode for to long
• Position client in normal voiding position, standing for men and sitting for women, if possible