Blind and CIC: Another Look At Learning Self-CIC

Abstract

Purpose Yearly 40 children have to learn Clean Intermittent Catheterization (CIC) in the UMC-Utrecht. The age at which the children are able to catheterize themselves depends a number of factors. Such as dexterity, motivation and physical and mental developmental stage of the child. Mostly children from the age of nine are able to learn self-CIC. But what is possible in a blind child? Material and Methods A 17 year old blind girl has been catheterized by her parents for the last 3 years and by caretakers from the institute she lives in since one year. In 2000 she has had a kidney-transplantation. Learning self-CIC failed because of her blindness and poor motivation. Because of a severe urosepsis at the age of 17 the procedure of catheterization has been examined again. The people who perform CIC have got instructions and the possibility to learn self-CIC has been discussed again. It was decided to try again. Step by step self-CIC was examined, adapted to the possibilities and restrictions of this unique child. The senses hearing and feeling were used instead of seeing. Results In two practical sessions and several telephone calls the girl has learned self-CIC. Within one month this girl has changed from a dependent patient to an independent young woman regarding CIC. Conclusions To learn self-CIC it is important to have a good motivation, confidence and courage, particularly in case of a severe disability like blindness. Patience, creativity and empathy from the nurse are necessary to make this method successful.