The bell and pad conditioning alarm for nocturnal enuresis in Australia: a multicentre audit.

Abstract

Introduction: Bedwetting or Nocturnal Enuresis (NE) is a common and distressing condition that can impact negatively on a young person’s self-esteem and social participation. An enuresis alarm is the initial treatment of choice for children with uncomplicated NE in Australia. Follow up studies sometimes make no distinction between the body worn alarm and the bell and pad alarm. Our multi centre audit was designed to evaluate specifically the use of the bell and pad alarm for the treatment of children with Nocturnal Enuresis (NE) aged 6 to16 years. Materials & Methods: This is a retrospective chart review. 2200 clinical records have been analysed to date. The total study will involve 3000 consecutive records. We aim to evaluate both the treatment protocols used and the results of bell and pad treatment. (HREC (IRB) No: HREC/12/BHSSSJOG/111) Results: The overall success (cure) rate (≥14 consecutive dry nights) of the bell and pad treatment was 76.6% and the relapse rate was 19% (8% incomplete records). After a second treatment course the success rate was 87%. We will present data comparing treatment response across sub groups: age, gender, NE type, concurrent bowel dysfunction and daytime wetting. Conclusions: This large retrospective audit will inform the development of evidence-based guidelines with prognostic information and practical tools to assist practitioners and families in their use of bell and pad treatment. This will be a valuable resource to assist in delivering a standardised care pathway.