Meet Annie

Managing bladder and bowel health can have a huge impact on confidence, comfort and quality of life. With Rocky Bay’s Continence Clinics now operating, our experienced Continence Nurses are here to provide personalised, holistic support. We sat down with Adult Continence Specialist Nurse (RN) Annie to learn how the clinics work and how they can help you feel your best.

How long have you worked at Rocky Bay?

I have worked at Rocky Bay for over seven years, spending more than six years as a Registered Nurse at Lucy Creeth Nursing Home and the past year as an Adult Continence Specialist based at the Rocky Bay’s Cockburn Hub.

How long have you been working in your field?

I have over 20 years of nursing experience across a wide range of clinical settings, including gynaecology and obstetrics, medical and surgical wards, operating theatres, endoscopy, community nursing, and aged care.

I hold postgraduate qualifications in Perioperative Care and Continence Practice. During my time at Lucy Creeth, I frequently managed complex care such as difficult catheterisations, suprapubic catheters, wound and skin care, PEG and stoma care. This experience led me to specialise further in continence care through postgraduate study and clinical placements in hospitals and specialist clinics.

What does your role involve at Rocky Bay, can you describe a typical day?

My day typically begins with reviewing and responding to continence-related enquiries. I see clients via home visits, hub appointments, or Microsoft Teams, depending on their needs and location.

A key part of my role is completing comprehensive continence assessments and reports, including recommendations for NDIS funding, practical management strategies, and organising product trials. I work closely with other therapists to support clients with behavioural or sensory-related continence needs, ensuring a holistic, multidisciplinary approach.

What do you love most about your role?

I enjoy helping clients access appropriate NDIS continence funding and supporting them to manage their continence effectively. Improving continence care plays a vital role in maintaining dignity, comfort, and confidence, and it is rewarding to see the positive impact this can have on daily life.

What is a continence clinic, and who can benefit from it?

A continence clinic provides specialised assessment, education, and support for people experiencing bladder or bowel concerns. It can benefit individuals of all ages, including those with disability, neurological conditions, or age-related continence changes, as well as people managing incontinence, catheter issues, constipation, or complex continence needs.

Why is it important to address bladder and bowel health early?

Early intervention can prevent complications such as skin breakdown, infections, social withdrawal, and reduced quality of life. It also supports better long-term outcomes and more effective management strategies.

How do you help clients choose the right continence aids?

I complete a comprehensive assessment that considers medical history, mobility, dexterity, lifestyle, sensory needs, and personal preferences. Trial products are often provided to ensure the chosen aids are practical, comfortable, and effective for everyday use.

How can improving continence health change someone’s quality of life?

Improved continence health can enhance independence, comfort, dignity, and confidence. It reduces anxiety, supports social participation, protects skin integrity, and helps people engage more fully in daily activities.

Can you share a success story from the clinic?

One client was experiencing frequent leakage and discomfort despite using high-absorbency products. Following a detailed assessment, tailored strategies, and product trials, we identified a more suitable solution and secured appropriate NDIS funding. This led to improved comfort, reduced leakage, and increased confidence for both the client and their support network.

Our experienced Continence Nurses are here to help you with tailored incontinence care and they’re ready when you are. Find out more about our Continence Clinics here