Practical advice for patients and parents/carers if child with nocturnal enuresis

Offer information tailored to the needs of the patients and their parents or carers. Simple advice which could be given includes (1):

• emptying the bladder of the child before going to bed
  
  
• have better access to the toilet by keeping a light on and leaving the toilet door open with a child seat on the toilet
  
  
• share the responsibilities of cleaning up after wetting with the child e.g. - by involving them in washing (not as a punishment)
  
  
• advice on adequate fluid intake and the importance of avoiding caffeine in night-time food and drink
  
  
• use of bed protection methods such as waterproof covers for the mattress and duvet and absorbent, quilted sheets
  
  
• wash the child thoroughly before dressing them
  
  
• use cold water or mild bleach to rinse the bedding and nightcloth
  
  
• simple emollients can be used to protect the skin
  
  
• use room deodorizes (2)

Reference:

• 1. National Clinical Guideline Centre 2010. Nocturnal enuresis: The management of bedwetting in children and young people
• 2. Watson L. Enuresis. InnovAiT 2010;3(2):91-94