The Effect of Clean Intermittent Catheterization on Family and Social Relationships

Abstract

Clean intermittent catheterization (CIC) is widely accepted for managing bladder dysfunction, preserving kidney function, and achieving continence. While CIC is frequently used in children, its impact on family and social relationships is not well understood. This study aims to explore the experience of children and adolescents needing CIC along with their families regarding the impact of CIC on their family and social life. This qualitative interview-based study used a phenomenological approach to gather information from patients and families between Aug 2018 and Oct 2019. Interviews were audio recorded, transcribed, and coded, focusing on CIC’s impact on relationships with caregivers, siblings, friends, and intimate partners, and the use of or desire for peer-to-peer connection with individuals with similar medical conditions. A total of 52 interviews among 40 families were conducted. Common themes central to patient and family experiences were identified, including (1) navigation of CIC in relationships between patients and their caregivers, siblings, friends, and intimate partners; (2) communication and collaboration between caregivers when approaching CIC; and (3) relationship building with individuals with similar medical needs and members of their interprofessional team. These findings underscore the importance of collaborative family dynamics and the interprofessional team’s role in facilitating supportive relationships. Pediatric psychologists are uniquely positioned to provide interventions that can help patients and families encourage open communication, identify coping strategies, manage disclosure about CIC to peers and intimate partners, facilitate peer-to-peer mentorship, and provide education on sexual health to patients, families, and other members of the interprofessional team.

Implications for Impact Statement

Interviews with 40 families (52 patients and caregivers) in a pediatric urology clinic about their experience with clean intermittent catheterization (CIC) uncovered a new understanding of how CIC impacts relationships with family members, friends, intimate partners, and peers with similar medical needs. Pediatric psychologists can provide intervention that (1) promotes communication within families and fosters gradual independence with CIC, (2) strengthens confidence and resilience when navigating CIC in social relationships, (3) promotes early discussion about sexual health as part of pediatric urologic care and supports patients in navigating disclosure about CIC needs to intimate partners, and (4) facilitates opportunities for peer support from individuals with similar medical needs.