To Pee Differently is Not that Different 1: Teaching Catheterizatíon to Parents of Children With Spina Bifida

Abstract

Purpose At our hospital every year 8 children are born suffering from Spina Bifida. This group receives treatment including the clean intermittent catheterization (CIC)-component. The parents are instructed in a clinical way by the nurses of the department. The teaching does not follow a standard protocol, and this causes differences in the method of instruction. Given the importance of a clear knowledge of CIC, a protocol “teach CIC” has been developed. The purpose is the implementation of the protocol “teach CIC” to parents at the clinic. What are obstructing and promoting factors at the implementation of this protocol? Material and Methods At first the current method of teaching was defined. Then a case study was done. Afterwards this was discussed and evaluated with the nurse involved, focussing on her own experience in teaching CIC to the parents. Finally the parents were asked if the information (which is necessary to learn CIC and to sustain it) was well received and understood. Results Up till now, the method of teaching CIC by nurses does not take place in a structured, orderly and complete way. The new protocol shows clearly what parents need to learn. Parents get a better understanding of the need for CIC and are therefore more motivated to continue the procedure. Conclusions Promoting factors: explain clearly what parents must learn. Transfer of care and sufficient time to teach the CIC-procedure. Obstructing factors: high workload, too much pressure, little continuity because of alternating duties/shifts by personal and a lack of knowledge by nurses.