What is a recommended strategy to assist a client in toileting?

Making a toileting schedule is a highly effective strategy for assisting a client in toileting, especially for those who may have difficulty recognizing their body's signals or have cognitive impairments. A structured schedule helps provide predictability and routine, reducing anxiety about potential accidents and encouraging regular bowel and bladder function. This approach can be particularly beneficial for clients such as those with incontinence issues, neurological conditions, or elderly patients, as it reinforces the habit of toileting at designated times, thereby promoting better self-management of their elimination needs.

Establishing a schedule can also help caregivers monitor the client’s elimination patterns, allowing them to address any issues more effectively should they arise. By knowing when to expect toileting needs, both clients and caregivers can foster a more comfortable and supportive environment, ultimately improving the client's quality of life.