Question

Following a spinal cord injury, the nurse instructs the client about urinary management. Which behavior modification is the most important for managing urge incontinence?

1) Instruct the client to avoid consumption of caffeine.
2) Encourage the client to void on a timed schedule.
3) Instruct the client on performing pelvic floor exercises.
4) Encourage the client to maintain a healthy weight.

Answer 1

The most important behavior modification for managing urge incontinence after a spinal cord injury is encouraging the client to void on a timed schedule.

Step-by-step explanation:

The most important behavior modification for managing urge incontinence after a spinal cord injury is 2) Encourage the client to void on a timed schedule.

Urge incontinence is caused by uncontrolled contractions of the detrusor muscle in the bladder wall. By voiding on a timed schedule, the client can help prevent unexpected bladder emptying and reduce the risk of leakage. This can be done by setting regular intervals for voiding, such as every 2-3 hours.

Other management strategies, such as avoiding caffeine, performing pelvic floor exercises, and maintaining a healthy weight, may also be beneficial, but having a timed schedule for voiding is the most important behavior modification for managing urge incontinence.