Incontinence Product Guide

What is the difference between "Briefs" and "Reusable Underwear"?
What are the advantages and disadvantages of reusable underwear?
What should I look for in a brief or disposable pad?
What should I look for in a pad or shield?

What is the difference between Briefs and Reusable Underwear?

Most of our Briefs are one-time use only, with the exception of Salk and UroConcept products. By definition, products in the Reusable Underwear category can be used multiple times.

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What are the advantages and disadvantages of reusable underwear?

Reusable underwear can be cost effective over the long term. They also tend to be more form-fitting than disposable underwear and some find them more comfortable. But reusable underwear is not for everyone. Some people may have sanitation concerns, and may have difficulty handling soiled underwear.

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What should I look for in a brief or disposable pad?

Briefs and disposable pads are either pull-on or strap-on. Pull-on undergarments work like traditional underwear. They work well for people with a full range of motion. People with back problems, however, should consider strap-on underwear instead. Strap-on underwear has some sort of fastener(varies between product) that secures the underwear. Although they are easier on the back, people with dexterity problems may have difficulty securing the strap.

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What should I look for in a pad or shield?

Check to make sure that the pad can absorb the amount of urine typically leaked. When determining the amount urine leaked, keep in mind that there may be times in which the patient has to wear the underpad for longer than anticipated. Therefore, it is better to choose a larger capacity than a smaller one.

The following is a general list of capacities. Note: These are strictly estimates and not all products are listed. Vitality Medical does not guarantee the stated capacities.

Humanicare Brand Working Capacity Dignity Regular 6 oz Dignity Stack 8 oz Dignity Thinsets 8 oz Dignity Super 9 oz Dignity Naturals 10 oz Dignity Extra Duty Double Pad 15 oz

Poise Brand Working Capacity Pantiliners 1.67 oz Regular Pads 5 oz Extra Pads 10 oz Extra Pads 12 oz

Misc

Brand	Working Capacity
Priva Extra Absorbancy	9 oz
SCA Serenity Pads	10-11 oz
Kendall Handicare Liners	11.5 oz

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Sources

Incontinence Care
Poise - Undergarment Product Guide


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