The best practice guideline (BPG) A Proactive Approach to Bladder and Bowel Management in Adults, Fourth Edition replaces the RNAO BPGs Promoting Continence Using Prompted Voiding and Prevention of Constipation in the Older Adult Population, both of which were last updated in 2011. This BPG provides evidence-based recommendations for effective strategies to support adults (aged 18 years and older) who live with urinary incontinence, fecal incontinence and/or constipation that will improve quality of care and lead to positive health outcomes.

The BPG includes good practice statements on conducing a focused initial assessment and recommendation areas that address the following: toileting strategies, physical activity, adequate intake of fibre and/or fluids, interprofessional approach and bowel protocol.

This BPG can be used by nurses, members of the interprofessional team and caregivers across the continuum of care and in all domains of practice such as administration, clinical, education, policy and research.  The evidence-based recommendations in this BPG are applicable to all practice settings where persons who live with urinary incontinence, fecal incontinence and/or constipation are accessing services (e.g., acute care, long-term care, primary and community care, and rehabilitation settings).