Translating research on incontinence into practice

Background: Translating research evidence into clinical practice (TRIP) is an important initiative for health services so that care delivered is cost-effective, is efficient, and improves patient outcomes. Most TRIP studies have reported on disseminating and implementing clinical practice guidelines, protocols, or care pathways and have been undertaken in acute rather than community settings. Objectives: To identify the factors that influence incontinence TRIP and to present key international studies on incontinence TRIP. Methods: Existing literature on TRIP was analyzed to generate a plan for future research. Results: Several methods to effect incontinence TRIP are described, including clinical practice guidelines and protocols, clinical pathways, partnerships between organizations, a model for incorporating UI research based on generic questions, and implementation strategies that incorporate change theory and consideration of barriers. Conclusions: Future research is needed on incontinence TRIP in the following areas: barriers, the best theoretical approaches, the effectiveness of empowerment approaches, the value of mentors, effective strategies for nurses and unlicensed personnel, the impact of international collaboration, and regulations across settings.