Abstract
A nursing specialty research panel was assigned the task of developing research questions pertinent to the issue of bladder management and skin integrity in multiple sclerosis. Review of the literature highlighted a gap in nursing research specific to nursing practice. Surveying colleagues at other multiple sclerosis centers revealed an inconsistent practice pattern.
We believe that urinary tract infections can lead to worsening of MS symptoms and that urinary retention is a common cause of urinary tract infections. The technique of intermittent-self-catheterization is taught to patients to decrease urinary retention. The first research question addresses recommendations for catheter reuse.
Additionally, skin breakdown is frequently referred to as a complication of MS. We do not know the incidence and prevalence of skin breakdown in this population. Moreover, we do not know the specific risk factors for skin breakdown in MS clients. The Braden scale has been utilized to predict pressure ulcer risk in the geriatric population. The pressure ulcer study being planned by the MS nursing specialty panel intends to examine the utility of the Braden scale to predict skin breakdown in MS patients.
Both studies will include patients with clinically definite multiple sclerosis from MS centers within the Consortium of Multiple Sclerosis Centers.