Helping children with dysfunctional voiding.

Children with dysfunctional voiding display a variety of symptoms including urinary urgency, frequency, and incontinence. Urinary tract infections and vesicoureteral reflux are not uncommon in this population. An accurate diagnosis of the underlying voiding dysfunction guides treatment, which may include a combination of behavioral, biofeedback, and medical interventions. Nurses play a key role in helping children and families understand the nature of voiding problems, implementing treatment regimens, monitoring progress, and keeping children on track. Various types of dysfunctional voiding in children, their evaluation, and management strategies are described.