What is a Bedwetting Alarm?
A bedwetting alarm, also known as an enuresis alarm, is a device used to help children recognize bedwetting when it occurs, creating a response of waking up when the child needs to go to the bathroom. According to pediatric doctor, Alan Greene, bedwetting alarms are one of the safest and most effective ways to prevent bedwetting. Bedwetting alarms are easy to use because they are intended for the child to use by themselves, with minimal parental help. The University of Michigan suggests using the alarm until the child has reached 3 to 4 weeks without any bedwetting incidents.
Setting a Bedwetting Alarm
Most bedwetting alarms should be straightforward enough for the child to set it himself after parental instruction is given. Two types of bedwetting alarms are available--one contains a pad that attaches to the bed, which is connected to an alarm that is placed next to the bed. The other type of alarm is a sensor that is clipped inside the underwear, with a connecting speaker that is attached to the shoulder of the child. When any urine goes onto the pad or sensor, the alarm will ring. The child should test the alarm several times by wetting her finger and placing it against the sensor or pad. This will show her what the alarm sounds like before she uses it.
Responding to a Bedwetting Alarm
When the child uses the alarm, he may not wake up the first few nights, although other family members will. A family member who hears the alarm must get the child out of bed and show her to the bathroom in order for the alarm to be effective. Eventually, the child will learn to get up on her own immediately upon hearing the alarm, preventing a bedwetting incident. The child will subconsciously learn to hold his urge to urinate until he wakes up. After waking up, it is imperative that the child resets the alarm, as bedwetting incidents may happen more than once in one night. If your child is having trouble resetting the alarm at first, the parent can help the child set the alarm after getting back into bed while he is getting used to the routine.
