A qualitative study exploring the emotional responses of female patients learning to perform clean intermittent self-catheterisation

Can we define the optimal postvoid residual volume at which intermittent catheterization should be recommended, and are there other measures that could guide an intermittent catheterization protocol: ICI-RS 2023

AIMS

The postvoid residual (PVR) volume of urine in the bladder is widely used in clinical practice as a guide to initiate treatment, including clean-intermittent self-catheterization (CISC). It is often believed that an elevated PVR causes complications such as recurrent urinary tract infections (UTI) and renal failure. However, evidence for this is limited and identifying alternative measures to guide treatment decisions may optimize patient care. At the International Consultation on Incontinence Research Society (ICI-RS) meeting in 2023 a Think Tank addressed the question of whether we can define the optimal PVR at which CISC should be recommended, and whether there are other measures that could guide a CISC protocol.

METHODS

The Think Tank conducted a literature review and expert consensus meeting focusing on current limitations in defining and measuring PVR, and highlighting other measures that may optimize selection for, and persistence with, CISC.

RESULTS

There is no consensus on the threshold value of PVR that is considered "elevated" or "significant." There is a lack of standardization on terminology, and the normal range of PVR in different populations of different ages remains to be well-studied. The measurement of PVR is influenced by several factors, including intraindividual variation, timing and method of measurement. Furthermore, the evidence linking an elevated PVR with complications such as UTI and renal failure is mixed. Other measures, such as bladder voiding efficiency or urodynamic parameters, may be better at predicting such complications, and therefore may be more relevant at guiding a CISC protocol.

CONCLUSIONS

There is a lack of high quality evidence to support PVR as a predictor for complications of UTI or renal failure. Threshold values for normal PVR in different populations are unknow, and so threshold values for "elevated" or "significant" PVR cannot be determined. Other factors, such as urodynamic findings, may be better at predicting complications and therefore guiding management decisions, and this remains to be studied. Areas for further research are proposed.

Intermittent self-catheterisation: the community nurse's role in identifying and overcoming the barriers

With their expertise and ability to leverage the therapeutic relationship, community nurses are well-placed to manage the complications and challenges associated with intermittent self-catheterisation. Francesca Ramadan provides an overview of the patient-, training- and environmentally-related barriers to intermittent self-catheterisation and of the ways in which these can be overcome by personalised, person-centred training and education.

UTI assessment tool for intermittent catheter users: a way to include user perspectives and enhance quality of UTI management

BACKGROUND

Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) are among the most severe complications for users of intermittent catheterisation (IC), with numerous risk factors contributing to their occurrence. The aim of this study was to develop a tool to assess UTI risk factors among IC users in a systematic way that considers the perspective of the individual user.

METHODS

The Design Thinking Process was used to guide the development of the content and format of the tool. The UTI Risk Factors model by Kennelly et al. was used as a basis for developing the content. Insights on the appropriate content and format were collected via the Coloplast Nurse Advisory Boards and by conducting a qualitative evidence synthesis on user perspectives and practices in relation to UTIs.

RESULTS

The literature search identified a total of 3544 articles, out of which 22 met the inclusion criteria. Additionally, three rounds of meetings were conducted with approximately 90 nurses from the Nurse Advisory Boards across Europe. The qualitative evidence synthesis showed that users describe their UTI symptoms in different terms and that personal needs and priorities impact their adherence and catheter selection. Furthermore, some users lack relevant and updated knowledge about IC and UTIs. The nurses described that correct UTI diagnosis is essential. They pointed that they would assess the user's general condition, adherence, technique, and catheter type as potential areas of risk factors and emphasised the importance of adequate support for users. The study resulted in the development of the UTI assessment tool for intermittent catheter users, which comprises three elements: a guide for healthcare professionals, a dialogue board, and a notepad. The tool starts with a confirmation of the UTI incidence, and then assesses risk factors via questions on health, adherence, technique, and catheter, and concludes with a support section.

CONCLUSIONS

The UTI assessment tool for intermittent catheter users is designed to help healthcare professionals assess UTI risk factors in a systematic way, while engaging users and taking their perspective into account. By identifying the relevant risk factors, the use of this tool has the potential to reduce the occurrence of UTIs for the individual IC user.

Theoretical and practical development of the TOPSY self-management intervention for women who use a vaginal pessary for pelvic organ prolapse

Background

Pelvic organ prolapse (POP) is a common condition in women, where the downward descent of pelvic organs into the vagina causes symptoms which impacts quality of life. Vaginal pessaries offer an effective alternative to surgery for the management of POP. However, the need for regular follow-up can be burdensome for women and requires significant healthcare resources. The TOPSY study is a randomised controlled trial which aims to determine the clinical and cost-effectiveness of self-management of vaginal pessaries. This paper describes the theoretical and practical development of the self-management intervention.

Methods

The intervention was developed using the MRC complex intervention framework, normalisation process theory (NPT) and self-management theory. The intervention aims to boost perceived self-efficacy in accordance with Bandura’s social cognitive theory and is guided by the tasks and skills Lorig and Hollman describe as necessary to self-manage a health condition.

Results

The TOPSY intervention was designed to support women to undertake the medical management, role management and emotional management of their pessary. The six self-management skills described by Lorig and Hollman: problem-solving, decision-making, resource utilisation, formation of a patient-provider partnership role, action planning and self-tailoring, are discussed in detail, including how women were supported to achieve each task within the context of pessary self-management. The TOPSY intervention includes a self-management support session with a pessary practitioner trained in intervention delivery, a follow-up phone call 2 weeks later and ongoing telephone or face-to-face support as required by the woman initiated by contacting a member of the research team.

Conclusions

The TOPSY study intervention was developed utilising the findings from a prior service development project, intervention development and self-efficacy theory, relevant literature, clinician experience and feedback from pessary using women and members of the public. In 2022, the findings of the TOPSY study will provide further evidence to inform this important aspect of pessary management.

Trial registration

ISRCTN Registry ISRCTN62510577. Registered on June 10, 2017

[An initial lack of knowledge of the perineal anatomy does not influence the learning of intermittent self-catheterization in women]

AIM

To evaluate the impact of female perineal anatomy knowledge on the success of a first learning of intermittent self-catheterization (ISC).

METHODS

Thirty subjects benefited from educational diagnosis, training and follow-up during 2 visits in a neuro-urology department. Three knowledge anatomical tests were carried out: a freehand drawing, then a diagram to be annotated and a self-location of the following 6 structures (labia majora, labia minora, clitoris, urethral meatus, vaginal orifice, anus) as well as a physiological knowledge test. A correction was made after annotating the diagram to perfect the learning process before performing the procedure.

RESULTS

Of the women studied, 83.3% had a neurological pathology and 77.7% had a gyneco-obstetrical history. Half of them had undergone perineal rehabilitation. Our study shows a lack of knowledge of the perineum prior to learning self-catheterization: 43.3% thought they knew it partially and 46.7% reported that they did not know it. Fifty-three percent of the subjects did not indicate the urethral meatus and 43.3% did not annotate the vaginal orifice on the diagram. Difficulties in anatomical transposition were observed: the urethral meatus was self-located in only 43.3% of subjects and 30% did not locate the vaginal orifice. Previous perineal rehabilitation was not benefical in the self-recognition of anatomical structures. However, all the patients, including those who did not initially locate the urethral meatus, acquired the technique of ISC.

CONCLUSION

Intial perineal anatomy ignorance in women was frequent but was not an obstacle to learning ISC.

LEVEL OF PROOF

4.

Barriers affecting patient adherence to intermittent self-catheterisation

Intermittent self-catheterisation (ISC) is now considered the standard of care for most patients with neurological conditions and associated lower urinary tract disorders. Numerous societies, led by the International Continence Society, are in agreement on the effectiveness of ISC. Use of intermittent catheters is reported to reduce the risk of catheter-associated urinary tract infection compared with indwelling urinary catheters while improving patient comfort and quality of life. However, previous studies have shown that, despite the benefits of ISC, it will not guarantee behavior change and the integration of this procedure into the daily life of patients. Patients may encounter internal (related to the patient themselves) and external (related to their environment) difficulties. Identifying these obstacles early will help promoting ISC success. This review aims to identify internal and external barriers related to ISC and to propose adequate solutions to avoid them.

Fatores associados ao conhecimento de pacientes e cuidadores acerca do cateterismo vesical intermitente limpo: revisão integrativa

RESUMO Objetivo Identificar na literatura os fatores associados ao conhecimento de pacientes e cuidadores acerca do cateterismo vesical intermitente limpo que dificultam ou facilitam o procedimento. Método Revisão integrativa da literatura nas bases de dados MEDLINE/PubMed, CINAHL, Cochrane, Web of Science, SCOPUS e LILACS. Resultados Após a revisão por pares, 13 estudos primários compuseram a amostra. A síntese do conhecimento foi realizada em duas categorias: Fatores associados ao conhecimento de pacientes e cuidadores sobre o que dificultam o procedimento e Fatores associados ao conhecimento de pacientes e cuidadores acerca do que facilitam o procedimento. Os fatores que dificultam e facilitam o procedimento relacionaram-se, respectivamente, à necessidade de informação e a sentimentos negativos, uso de linguagem de fácil compreensão, aplicação de folhetos informativos, entre outros. Conclusão Há escassez de artigos publicados sobre a temática, e os que foram identificados apresentaram baixo nível de evidência, exigindo, portanto, maior empenho e compromisso por parte de profissionais de saúde e pesquisadores para utilizarem desenhos mais robustos.

Selecting an intermittent self-catheter: key considerations

This article explores the factors that must be considered when assessing patients for intermittent self-catherisation (ISC). It discusses the various types of intermittent catheters and their properties. Key considerations for the health professional when making product recommendations are covered and emphasis is placed on teaching patients the ISC technique. The article also highlights what patients value in terms of product choice and the importance of ongoing support. It concludes by introducing the GentleCath Glide, a new product that incorporates FeelClean™ technology, which leaves less residue on the hands and clothes.

Intermittent Self-catheterization in Older Adults: Predictors of Success for Technique Learning

Purpose

The main goal of this retrospective study is to explore the predictors of success in learning clean intermittent self-catheterization (CISC) in patients over 65 years of age. The secondary goal is to assess whether in this population, the risk of failure to perform CISC is greater, compared with patients under 65 with similar pathologies.

Methods

All patients older than 65 consulting between January 2011 and January 2016 for learning CISC were included. A control population younger than 65 matching with sex, body mass index, and pathology was selected.

Results

One hundred sixty-nine of the 202 patients (83.7%) over 65 succeeded in learning CISC. Obesity (P<0.05), low pencil and paper test (PP test) (P<0.01) and low functional independence measure (FIM) (P<0.01) scores were risk factors of failure. No significant differences were found with sex or pathology. In multivariate analysis, low PP test perineum access (odds ratio [95% confidence interval], 2.30 [1.32–4.42]), low FIM motor (1.04 [1.01–1.08]), and FIM cognition (1.18 [1.03–1.37]) scores were independent factors of learning failure. Compared to control group, age over 65 was not predictive of failure (P=0.15).

Conclusions

Our study shows that success in learning CISC does not depend on age but on difficulties in mobility, access to perineum and probably cognitive disorders.

Telenursing manual for providing care to patients using clean intermittent urinary catheterization

Abstract Objective: To develop and evaluate apparent and content validity of a telenursing manual to support nurses in the care delivery of patients using clean intermittent urinary catheterization. Methods: Methodological study addressing the development and validation of a telenursing manual. The expert group who validated the telenursing manual was composed of 11 nurses. An inter-rater level of agreement of 70% was considered for each aspect of the instrument. Results: The following levels of agreement were obtained for each aspect: Language 97%, Content 97.7% and Objectives, Relevance, Functionality and Usability 100% each. Conclusion: The manual is available for access and represents an important initiative for the field of telenursing in Brazil, assisting nurses in the telecare provided to patients using clean intermittent urinary catheterization.

Clean Intermittent Self-Catheterization as a Treatment Modality for Urinary Retention: Perceptions of Urologists

Purpose

Clean intermittent self-catheterization (CISC) is now considered the gold standard for the management of urinary retention. In the literature, several articles on patients’ perspectives on CISC and adherence to this technique have been published. No studies have yet explored the points of view of professional caregivers, such as nurses and doctors. The aim of this study was to explore the opinions of urologists about CISC and to evaluate the need for dedicated nurses specialized in CISC through a self-administered questionnaire.

Methods

A questionnaire was developed to explore the opinions of professional caregivers about self-catheterization and to evaluate the need to provide nurses with specialized education in CISC. Questionnaires were sent to 244 urologists through email. We received 101 completed questionnaires. The response rate was 41.4%.

Results

Hand function, the presence or absence of tremor, and visual acuity were rated as the most important determinants for proposing CISC to a patient. Twenty-five percent of the urologists reported that financial remuneration would give them a greater incentive to propose CISC. The lack of dedicated nurses was reported by half of the urologists as a factor preventing them from proposing CISC. A meaningful number of urologists thought that patients perceive CISC as invasive and unpleasant. Although most urologists would choose CISC as a treatment option for themselves, almost 1 urologist out of 5 would prefer a permanent catheter.

Conclusions

This questionnaire gave valuable insights into urologists’ perceptions of CISC, and could serve as the basis for a subsequent broader international study. Further research should also focus on the opinions of nurses and other caregivers involved in incontinence management. Apart from financial remuneration, it is also clear that ensuring sufficient expertise and time for high-quality CISC care is important. This could be a potential role for dedicated nurses.

The female experience of ISC with a silicone catheter

Intermittent self-catheterisation (ISC) is a safe and effective treatment in the management of neuropathic bladder, voiding dysfunction and urinary incontinence in women. ISC has been shown to improve quality of life when used appropriately. It provides freedom for individuals who require bladder drainage as they can choose where and when to catheterise to empty the bladder. ISC requires minimum equipment, is a more discreet solution than an indwelling catheter and is relatively easy to teach in one patient visit. There are a range of different ISC catheters available on prescription. Many have been designed specifically for women and patient choice regarding product selection is an important consideration. This article describes a UK patient-satisfaction survey evaluating the female patient's perspective of learning ISC using a silicone intermittent catheter called HydroSil Go^™ that is manufactured by C.R. Bard, Inc.

Clean intermittent self-catheterisation: working with patients

Clean intermittent self-catheterisation is carried out when the bladder cannot be emptied adequately by voiding. Because learning how to self-catheterise can be daunting, it is essential that the nurse has the time, knowledge and skills necessary support the patient during the learning phase, so that he or she can develop confidence and master the technique. Causes for urinary retention are considered and step-by-step instructions are given for both female and male patients, including problems that may be encountered and how these can be overcome. Examples of catheters and other aids available are suggested, with reference to particular features they may have, to overcome difficulties or to assist patients with particular needs. Issues including infection, frequency of catheterisation and fluid intake are also discussed.

Who decides? A qualitative study on the decisional roles of patients, their caregivers and doctors on the method of bladder drainage after spinal cord injury

STUDY DESIGN

Qualitative study using individual in-depth interviews.

OBJECTIVE

To explore the roles of patients, their caregivers and doctors when making decisions on the method of bladder drainage after spinal cord injury (SCI).

SETTING

Five public hospitals in Malaysia.

METHODS

Semistructured (one-to-one) interviews with 17 male patients with SCI, 4 caregivers and 10 rehabilitation professionals.

RESULTS

Eight themes describing the respective decisional roles of patients, their caregivers and doctors emerged from the analysis: patient's right and responsibilities, patient as an informed decision maker, forced to accept decision; surrogate decision maker, silent partner; doctor knows best, over-ride patient's decision, or reluctant decision maker. Both patients and doctors acknowledged the importance of patient autonomy but not all patients had the chance to practice it. Some felt that they were forced to accept the doctor's decision and even alleged that the doctor refused to accept their decision. Doctors considered the caregiver as the decision maker in cases that involved minors, elderly and those with tetraplegia. Some patients considered bladder problems an embarrassing subject to discuss with their caregivers and did not want their involvement. Doctors were described as knowledgeable and were trusted by patients and their caregivers to make the most appropriate option. Some doctors were happy to assume this role whereas some others saw themselves only as information providers.

CONCLUSIONS

A paternalistic model is prevalent in this decision-making process and there is a discrepancy between patients' preferred and actual decisional roles.

Hardiness and Outcome of Self-catheterisation Training (HOST): protocol for an observational study exploring the effects of personality traits in women on ability to learn clean intermittent self-catheterisation

INTRODUCTION

Clean intermittent self-catheterisation (CISC) is the recommended first-line management of voiding dysfunction; however, psychological factors involved in acceptance and take up are often neglected. There is a tendency to discuss the success of CISC in relation to factors that affect teaching and learning, with subsequent success or failure being attributed to these. There is limited research investigating what extent, personality traits impact on a woman's willingness to learn CISC and subsequent mastery of the technique.

METHOD AND ANALYSIS

All women attending a tertiary urogynaecology department as eligible for CISC will be invited to participate in the study. Over the 14-month recruitment period, an estimated 130 women will be involved. The participants will complete a series of self-reported questionnaires. Personality types will be assessed using The Hardiness Scale and State-Trait Anxiety Inventory. The impact of urinary symptoms and CISC on quality of life (QoL) will be measured using an electronic pelvic-floor assessment questionnaire (ePAQ). Success and mastery will be measured by recording the number of hospital appointments and the length of time taken to learn. Confidence will be measured using the Likert scale. A sample of 20 women will be invited to participate in semi-structured in-depth interviews to explore women's views and experiences of CISC.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

Regulatory approvals will be in place prior to the start of the study. Good clinical practice guidelines will be followed throughout. Eligibility and training for CISC will be undertaken in accordance to individualised care plans in line with unit protocol and will not be influenced by the study. Trial data will be anonymised and participant confidentiality will be maintained. The Study findings will be disseminated through publications in relevant journals and will be presented at multiprofessional conferences and scientific meetings.

A survey of short- and long-term pre-lubricated intermittent catheters

The prospect of having to undertake clean intermittent self-catheterisation (CISC) for a short time, or for the rest of a patient's life, can be very daunting. It has an impact on their social, sexual, work and family life. Despite the challenges of the practical performance of the procedure, CISC has many advantages and is a means of reducing the subsequent problems and cost implications associated with long-term indwelling catheter use. There are many different products available on prescription for patients performing CISC and it can be a challenge to choose the right one. This article discusses the impact CISC has on the individual and focuses on a regional survey conducted in a district in the UK of nearly 100 patients who agreed to complete a confidential questionnaire about their experiences using a pre-lubricated CISC catheter (Actreen®). It also discusses the challenges facing nurses with patients practising CISC and offers advice to help patients come to terms with this procedure and its effect on their daily life.

Psychological coping with intermittent self-catheterisation (ISC) in people with spinal injury: a qualitative study

BACKGROUND

Management of bladder function is important in rehabilitation of spinal injury. Failure to comply with bladder management techniques, such as intermittent catheterisation, can have long-term consequences leading to renal failure. It is important, therefore, that spinal injured people adapt to the therapy at an early stage, but there is little research aimed at exploring patient experiences of ISC.

OBJECTIVES

This study explores the experiences of patients who have a spinal cord injury and who carry out ISC in order to identify psychological coping factors that might affect therapy adherence.

DESIGN

A qualitative study using a Grounded Theory framework involving individual interviews.

SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS

There were 15 participants (11 men and 4 women), median age 52 years (range 24-68) who were discharged from spinal rehabilitation, living in the community and using ISC. The sample was recruited from the patient lists of a tertiary spinal injury unit and a Specialist Continence Service.

METHODS

In-depth interviews were carried out in participants' own homes by a trained interviewer. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed and analysis carried out using NUD*IST6 software.

RESULTS

A core category of 'normalisation' was identified and the causes and consequences related to this category are reported. Categories of 'independence' and 'control' were closely related to, and were interdependent with, 'normalisation'. Participants were relieved of worry when they could exert control over their bladder function, and a feeling of normalisation helped them to maintain the integrity of their self-image. The ultimate outcome was either adaptation or maladaptation. Adaptation was dependent on positive acceptance of intermittent catheterisation and the need for good bladder management at the outset, whereas maladaptation was a result of avoidance and denial.

CONCLUSIONS

Adherence to ISC is related to early psychological coping strategies of active acceptance rather than denial and avoidance in relation to bladder management. It is important to support positive appraisals of ISC, particularly from the patient perspective, which suggest that it is the first step to independence and that it also provides normalisation and control of bladder function. ISC can contribute to a good quality of life, dignity, privacy and self-esteem.