JMIR Publications

ABSTRACT

Background:

Diapers are commonly used in elderly patients with urination disorders. In this study, we want to verify how well we estimate the weight of urine measured in conventional diapers using a smart diaper system (SDS).

Objective:

The aim of the current research is to determine the degree of accuracy of technology which has been specifically designed for the management of urination routines and the use of incontinence pads in older adults.

Methods:

From January to December 2022, 97 participants from three senior nursing homes were tested on elderly patients with at least one chronic disease. The index test measured the change in electrical resistance of the SDS and the reference test measured the change in actual urine weight.

Results:

The average age of 97 participants was 86.48 years, with 10 males and 87 females. Seventy-three patients (75.3%) with hypertension and 86 patients (88.7%) with dementia, and 86 patients (88.7%) with two or more comorbidities accounted for the majority. Pearson's correlation coefficient and intraclass correlation coefficient was 0.971 and 0.985 (P <.001). In Bland-Altman's figure, the difference in the mean between the two tests was evenly scattered without showing a specific pattern, indicating that the SDS and actual urine weight are very consistent. And the difference between the mean of the two tests is -0.045 of standardized mean difference, and all measurements are located within the 95% confidence interval, so this confirms that the two test methods are interchangeable.

Conclusions:

This study showed the possibility that heath care givers could be alerted by the SDS to the need for pad replacement due to incontinence, thus avoiding the development of dermatological complications.