Incontinence pad provision is based on the NHS Scotland product formulary, which is adhered to by the Health Boards across Scotland.
Incontinence pads are only prescribed following a full continence assessment. This type of containment should only be considered once intractable incontinence has been diagnosed and social containment is the only option.
These products are prescribed based on clinical need only, not preference or choice. The person or their carer will be asked by the assessing nurse to provide information on their fluids and food intake and Bladder and Bowel diaries may also be requested. Incontinence pads do not replace toileting.
When the correct style and absorbency of pad is prescribed and fitted correctly, it will prevent leakage and prevent skin
breakdown. Remember bigger isn’t always better. It should be the smallest pad, which is comfortable to wear to meet the person’s absorbency needs.
To Reorder Incontinence Pads for Community
Ontex Telephone: 0345 216 0036 Online: Home Delivery Ordering
Fitting Instructions
- ID Light Fitting Guide
- ID Form Fitting Guide
- Fixation Pants Washing Instructions
- ID Slip Fitting Guide
Fitting Videos
Frequently Asked Pad Questions
Are incontinence pads provided for bodily fluids other than urine and faeces?
No. Incontinence pads are made differently to sanitary wear. Therefore are only supplied for urine and faeces.
Can I get pads?
Only after a thorough continence assessment, it may be necessary to prescribe pads for you. This is often only as a temporary measure whilst you are undergoing treatment.
Does the thickness of my pad matter?
Many people think that a thick pad means it will work better and hold more. Thanks to modern technology pads are made as thin as possible for comfort and skin protection.
How often should I change my pad?
Most pads have wetness indicator lines to show the presence of urine. These act as a guide to show when the pad may need to be changed. The yellow line will turn blue and, if present, the blue line/writing will fade. When approximately two thirds of the wetness indicator lines have changed colour the pad is ready to be changed. If there has been any faecal soiling, then the pad should be changed immediately regardless of how the wetness indicators look.
Can I flush disposable pads down the toilet?
No, absolutely not. Used pads should be placed into a plastic bag and disposed of in general household waste. In care homes, and hospitals local policy for disposal should be followed
Can two pads be worn at the same time to increase the absorbency?
No, the back of the pads are waterproof therefore, fluid will not flow from one pad to the other. There is no proven benefit from wearing more than one pad at the same time. Wearing more than one pad is viewed as bad practice. Not only it is uncomfortable to wear, but it does put the person’s skin and pressure areas at risk by forming hard edges. If the current product is not effective, then the person should be reassessed.
Can I leave the same pad on overnight
Yes, as long as the absorbency of the pad will last overnight without leaking, there is no faecal soiling on the pad, and there is no other medical reason for the pad to be changed. Please note in a care home/hospital environment it is important to check the wetness indicators at regular intervals, without disturbing sleep to ensure the pad will last.
Can I apply the same pad after using the toilet?
Yes, as long as the pad is intact, there is no faecal soiling, approximately two-thirds of the wetness indicator lines have not changed colour and there is no other medical reason for the pad to be changed.
What factors can stop pads working?
A poorly fitted pad, incorrect application and use of based barrier creams. The use of talcum powder can also inhibit the pads performance. Talcum powder, either on the pad or applied to the groin area, is not recommended. If a medicated cream is prescribed, it should be applied following the manufacturer’s instructions. The use of such creams should be determined by the local Tissue Viability Nurse and by local guidelines.
What is the working absorbency and ISO (total) absorbency of an incontinence pad?
The working absorbency is a guide to the amount of urine the pad will absorb during normal use and wear. Commonly the Rothwell Method is used to measure the ISO /total capacity of the pad in the laboratory during the manufacturing process.
What is the advantage of weighing pads?
Weighing pads allows for an accurate measurement of urine in the pad to be recorded. The number of wet episodes and leakages can also be recorded. This can help establish whether a higher or lower absorbency pad is required and when urine output needs to be monitored.