Young people's evaluation of a nurse-led bladder training service: working towards developing a patient reported experience and outcome measure

Abstract

The attainment of urinary continence is usually achieved in early childhood, however, many children and young people can experience challenges to their urinary continence during childhood and into adolescence. Urinary incontinence has been linked to physiological comorbidities such as constipation and urinary tract infections and can also affect the social confidence and quality of life for children and young people. The aim of this study was to develop an experience and outcome measure for children and young people who experience lower urinary tract symptoms. A questionnaire-based evaluation to directly consult with young people attending a nurse-led bladder training clinic was used, pre and post treatment session, to evaluate their experiences and reported outcomes. The findings demonstrated that many of the young people reported a good response to bladder training as a resolution or reduction in their urinary symptoms; however, some young people remained reluctant to discuss their continence problems in clinic. The questionnaires highlighted the value they placed on the psychosocial support from the nurses in the clinic and how this in turn influenced their reported self-confidence and ability to manage their condition. Exploring reported experiences and outcomes can be helpful in determining what is important to young people attending a bladder training clinic. This has also highlighted the specific contribution nurses make in the assessment, intervention and management of this group.