NHS bed blocking crisis as poor continence care 'contributing to issue'
UK healthcare professionals are voicing concerns that inadequate incontinence care may be worsening the NHS bed-blocking issue.
A survey involving 500 medical workers who attend to patients with incontinence found a prevalent opinion that better medical recommendations and superior care supplies could hasten the discharge of individuals occupying hospital beds unnecessarily.
The research, carried out by hygiene and health company Essity, indicated that suboptimal handling of incontinence has led to admissions or prolonged stays in hospitals and care homes. Additionally, one in four respondents believed that the poor management of these conditions contributes to patient discharge delays.
An Essity representative has indicated that if the government accelerates the implementation of a policy proposed by Lord Philip Hunt in May 2024 which favours patient experience and outcomes over cost, it greatly alleviates the high rates of bed occupancy.
Despite its announcement, the policy's roll-out has faced several months of postponement.
Consultant urologist Mr. Mark Stott is an advocate for customised care plans and higher-grade incontinence products, suggesting such measures could expedite bed availability.
He said: "Incontinence is a key factor affecting the package of care, early discharge or residential placement in a number of patients.
"We know a good continence care plan can contribute to patients getting home more quickly; it is that package of care which allows them to become independent again, and which speeds up their recovery."
He added: "Early supported discharge, with a tailored plan - which takes into account the patient's individual needs, the reason for their incontinence, their physical and mental ability – can prevent help to reduce length of stay, relapses and readmittances."
The majority of professionals believe the new policy, once implemented, will enhance patient dignity, help improve patients' mental and physical health and prevent many from being admitted in the first place.
The survey also found that six out of 10 professionals believe urinary tract infections could be managed more effectively, while 54 per cent called for better education on incontinence overall.
Social care, pressure ulcers and improved care for mental and physical health were all pinpointed as areas that could be better managed for patients suffering from incontinence.
Richard Maddison, spokesperson for Essity, said: "It's clear when you speak to healthcare professionals that the way in which the NHS procures medical products has to change.
"Choosing the cheapest product believing it will save money is a huge false economy that not only ends up costing the health service more in the long run, but it completely disregards the negative knock-on effects such as unnecessary admissions, bed blocking, patient dignity, and ultimately the outcome for the patient.
"The current approach to procurement has a hugely detrimental impact on patients, their families, and healthcare professionals. The answer is not more money for the NHS, the answer is a smarter way to spend the money it has now."
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