Urinary incontinence care is routine in long-term care settings, yet research shows it plays a far larger role in caregiver strain than often recognized. Across surveys, clinical studies, and facility data, incontinence-related tasks emerge as a key driver of burnout, physical fatigue, and staff turnover, especially among CNAs and frontline nurses.
1 Incontinence Care as a Major Turnover Factor
Surveys of long-term care leaders report that up to 59% of CNA and nurse turnover [MCKnights, 2022] is linked to the heavy workload associated with urinary incontinence. Leadership increasingly recognizes continence care as not only a clinical need but also a workforce stressor.
2 High-Burden Tasks That Disrupt Workflow
Research consistently shows that elimination care-diaper changes, toileting, and bed/linen changes-is among the most physically demanding and time-consuming aspects of nursing work. These repetitive tasks interrupt workflow, increase time pressure, and contribute significantly to caregiver fatigue. [PMC,2023]
3 Workload, Burnout, and Intent to Leave
Larger workforce studies confirm that high workload is a strong predictor of burnout, disengagement, and turnover intentions. Because incontinence care demands frequent, hands-on attention, it amplifies overall workload and accelerates burnout cycles. [PMC, 2025]
4 Frequent Changes Increase Time and Costs
Operational data shows caregivers may perform dozens of product changes and multiple linen changes per shift, driving both time and material use. This increases staff burden and contributes to higher facility costs, overtime, and resource waste. [Tranquility Products, 2025]
5 Burnout Impact Quality and Safety [JAMA Network, 2024]
Burnout has well-documented consequences: reduced quality of care, increased errors, lower patient satisfaction, and higher organizational instability. Incontinence-related workload is therefore not just a staffing concern—it directly affects clinical performance.
How UniSUC Can Help Address These Challenges?
While no single solution can eliminate all burden, systems that reduce the frequency of saturated diapers, minimize linen changes, and streamline workflow can ease caregiver fatigue and improve efficiency. The UniSUC Whisper System—combining continuous suction, quiet overnight function, and compatibility with common incontinence products-helps reduce repetitive high-burden tasks, support skin health, and lower supply waste. By decreasing time spent on frequent incontinence tasks, UniSUC may support caregiver wellbeing, improve workflow, and help facilities deliver more consistent and efficient patient care.
Works Cited
1 Brown. (2022). Incontinence Care as a Major Turnover Factor MCKnights.
2 Jung et al., (2023). High-Burden Tasks That Disrupt Workflow PMC.
3 Galanis et al., (2025). Workload, Burnout, and Intent to Leave PMC.
4 Borcherdt. (2023). Frequent Changes Increase Time and Costs Tranquility Products.
5 Zixin. (2022). Burnout Impacts Quality and Safety Jama Network.
