Maintaining Lower Levels of Care Through Automated Perineal Hygiene

The inability to independently manage perineal hygiene after toileting is a common issue for those in assisted living and nursing home environments. It is associated with skin breakdown (dermatitis), increased nursing costs, and loss of patient self-esteem and independence. Water-based toileting has been evaluated as a possible adjunct to patient care, but its uptake has been limited by ineffective cleansing and drying. 40 subjects with limitations in independent capacity for perineal hygiene that require assistance with toileting will be recruited from a continued care retirement center. Subjects will be assessed for incontinence, and skin breakdown or irritation. Subjects will be provided a Wellness Toilet System, cleanser, and, if needed, zinc oxide barrier spray to be applied in cases of dermatitis. Investigators hypothesize that subjects given the device will remain more independent, with higher quality of life. Secondary hypotheses are that subjects will experience improved relationships with their caregivers, and that active dermatitis will be treated in those already with the condition, and prevented in those at risk.