Pelvic floor muscle training for the prevention of urinary incontinence in antenatal and postnatal women

Abstract

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Background: Pregnancy and vaginal delivery may cause urinary incontinence (UI) in some women, which can impact on their quality of life. Pelvic floor muscles training (PFMT) is a safe and effective intervention for preventing UI associated with pregnancy. Objectives: The aim of this evidence-implementation project was to promote PFMT to prevent UI among antenatal and postnatal women in an obstetric and gynecological hospital in China. Methods: A clinical audit was undertaken using the Joanna Briggs Institute Practical Application of Clinical Evidence System tool. Six audit criteria that represent best practice recommendations for PFMT were used. A baseline audit was conducted followed by the implementation of multiple strategies and finalized with a follow-up audit to determine change in practice. Results: Results from pre- and post-implementation audits indicated that compliance rates for Criterion 1 (nurse education), Criterion 2 (information providing), Criterion 3 (needs and precautions identifying), Criterion 4 (assessment of pelvic floor function and referral suggestion) reached 100% in the follow-up audit. The compliance rate for Criteria 5 (women education) and Criteria 6 (follow-up providing) attained 90 and 63%, respectively, in the follow-up audit. Conclusion: The project was successful in improving women's knowledge and skills around UI and PFMT. A variety of strategies, such as an effective education program, simple and clear instruments, multiple educational materials can facilitate implementation of evidence in clinical practice. Future plans for continuous improvements in practice and outcomes should be discussed. Further audits will need to be carried out to monitor practice and effect change as required.