SHBC1384
E.Q.SEOW1, D. WANG1, Y. LI1
Tan Tock Seng Hospital1
Patients admitted into local hospitals are currently using taped diaper. Hence, those with poor dexterity or unsteady gait might require the help of a nurse to assist with donning and doffing of diaper. The purpose of this study was to empower patient in self-care, as well as to promote independence in patients with disabilities by using pull-up diaper.
A single arm, prospective interventional study that took place in rehabilitation ward, and patients were recruited if they met the study criteria. Two weeks’ pull-up diapers were supplied and patient were taught on donning and doffing of diaper. Functional Independence Measure (FIM) toileting score was assessed before and after diaper trial. Moreover, a short survey was also conducted to measure user’s experience.
A total of 26 patients were recruited for this study (58% female, 42% male). Median FIM toileting score was 2 (IQR=2) before use of pull-up diaper and improved to 4 (IQR=3) after use of pull-up diaper (p < .001). All participants (n=26) agreed that it was comfortable to wear the diaper; 77% (n=20) of the participants agreed that it helped to improve their self-care. No adverse skin reaction was reported from participants.
This study showed pull-up diaper improves independence in toileting. Furthermore, all participants agreed that it was comfortable to wear the pull-up diaper. Nevertheless, the limitation of this study was small sample size and lack of a control group. Further larger scale studies to evaluate the effectiveness of pull-up diaper in improving independence and cost saving are suggested.