Changing a urethral or suprapubic catheter: the patient's perspective

Understanding the patient's perspective in any area of health care is now recognised as being crucial to good practice, but little is known about patients' views on living with an indwelling urinary catheter. In this study, 36 people living with either a urethral or suprapubic catheter across the UK were interviewed. After thematic analysis, the authors interpreted what they learned. Many issues were raised, including the need to know who was responsible for changing the catheter, the importance of continuity of care, 24-hour access to services, and good hygiene. Patients valued nurses with training and experience, with plenty of time, who took care and who listened to what mattered to the patient. The patient's perspective is important at all levels, not only when designing and planning an integrated continence service, but also in delivering services in the community.