Maintaining Continence

This refers to the ability to control the bladder or bowel functions.

PURPOSE

This activity will give the learner the ability necessary for appropriate management of urinary and fecal elimination.

• Step 1

  Demonstrate how to use the bathroom using a doll or a stuffed animal. Pretend the animal communicated their need to go to the bathroom. Take the doll to the bathroom and undress her and have her use the toilet, wash her hands and dry her hands.

• Step 2

  Read a book or illustrate the necessary steps for using a toilet to show them the steps. Create a rewards chart and give learners a star whenever they accurately identify the need to use the toilet and use it.

• Step 3

  Ask the learner to go to the bathroom when they feel the need to use the restroom.

  *In case help is required, tell the learner to inform the caregiver and then help with what is needed.

• Step 4

  When the learner feels the urge to pass a bowel motion, ask them to make sure to let the caregiver know and try to go to the bathroom on their own.

  *Please do not shame the learner in case there is an accident – just encourage them to tell you the following time and reward them with praise when they do