Continence Service - Borders
The Borders Continence Service aims to promote continence and the management of incontinence for the residents of Borders region, whether in the community, a hospital, nursing home, or social work establishment.
Continence Adviser
The continence adviser that provides the continence service is a registered nurse.
Referral to the Service
The first point of contact for the client is with a health professional, for example a district nurse or General Practitioner. The health professional will make a referral to the continence adviser either by letter or telephone if necessary. An appointment date and time will be given immediately if the referral is made by telephone, or within a few days, if by letter. The continence adviser may give advice either by telephone or personal visit.
The Role of the Continence Adviser
The Continence Adviser, who has special knowledge and expertise about continence problems and their management, provides education to clients, carers and health professionals.
Clients who use the service will receive an assessment of their needs. An individualised programme of care will be then be discussed and agreed with the client. The client may also be shown a range of aids that will help them manage their incontinence.
The Continence Adviser aims to:
- continuously strive to improve the quality of the service
- act in a professional manner.
- ensure that the client receives the best possible care within any restraints placed on the service.
- be easily accessed by anyone requiring assistance whether they be patient, carer, nurse, GP, or other health professional.
- liaise with all disciplines in Health and Social Work environments, with the permission of the client.
The continence adviser will also:
- give talks to carers, voluntary and charitable groups
- carry out local and national trials of products.
- set up study days or seminars for other health professionals.
- provide educational material to clients, health professionals and make them available in Health Centres and other public places.
Clients Charter for Continence
Our charter for continence presents the specific needs and rights of people with bladder or bowel problems. It outlines the standards of care that the client can expect to receive.
As a person with bladder or bowel problems you have the right to:
- be treated with sensitivity and understanding
- become continent if possible
- receive a thorough individual assessment of your condition by a doctor or nurse knowledgeable in this aspect of care
- request specialist advice about continence care
- be provided with a clear explanation of your diagnosis
- participate in full discussion of treatment options, their advantages and disadvantages
- be provided with full, impartial information on the range of products which are available and how to obtain them
- expect products to have clear instructions for use
- receive regular reviews of treatment and be given the opportunity to change treatments if your condition has changed
- be made aware of any treatments or products as they become available
- be provided with a personal contact point able to give you ongoing advice and support
Contact Details for Continence Service
Louise Brown
Lead Continence Nurse
Westgrove
Waverley Road
Melrose
TD6 9SJ
General Tel: 01896 824555