Supporting Children Who Have to Learn CIC: Different Emptying Can Also Be Normal

Abstract

PURPOSE Children with bladder emptying problems who need to catheterise themselves show a strong aversion when they hear that they have to learn this. A DVD was composed with clips of children discussing their experiences with Clean Intermittent Catheterisation (CIC). MATERIAL AND METHODS A well-known Dutch TV personality interviewed three children at home, two girls (11 and 14 years old), and one boy (12 years old). All three were on CIC. The film starts by showing three children, who are similar to other children of the same age: they play soccer, ride horses and go away on a holiday. However, there is one difference: these children need to do CIC. The children are asked questions such as: How did you feel when you heard about CIC? Did you tell your friends? Is it possible to stay over with friends? In the interview, the children discuss their feelings about living with CIC. At the end of the film, each child gives a golden tip about how to accept or to improve life with CIC. During the presentation the DVD will be showed. CONCLUSIONS Most children with bladder emptying problems are scared and do not want to learn CIC. This film was developed to facilitate starting a conversation about CIC and to help patients accept it. Children listen to their peers discussing their experiences with CIC. This sends a powerful message to children with negative feelings about CIC, and helps them overcome these feelings.