HealthAugust 22, 2026

incontinence

in-KON-ti-nens

Definition

The medical condition of lacking voluntary control over bladder or bowel functions.

Etymology

The word comes from the Latin 'incontinentia,' meaning 'inability to restrain,' formed from the prefix 'in-' (not) and 'continere' (to hold together or restrain).

In the news

The article lists the lack of attention to resident incontinence as an example of the serious deficiencies and neglect found by investigations at some nursing homes.

Va. health dept. improves nursing home inspection backlog, reforms sanction criteria for facilities

Read the full article ↗

WTOP

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