Urinary dysfunction: assessment and management in stroke patients.

Continence care is a high priority during the rehabilitative process following stroke. Effective continence care can significantly improve the quality of life of patients and carers. A lack of knowledge and understanding of the likely causes of incontinence can lead to a failure to adopt the correct care strategies, which may in turn cause incontinence. Nurses are given little training and support in continence care, yet a basic level of training and the ability to assess potential problems may improve rehabilitation progress and outcomes.