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.