Feasibility of a Web-Based Self-management Intervention for Intermittent Urinary Catheter Users With Spinal Cord...

Area of Science:

• Urology
• Rehabilitation Medicine
• Digital Health

Background:

• Intermittent catheterization is crucial for bladder management in individuals with spinal cord injury.
• Effective self-management strategies are essential for improving quality of life and reducing complications.
• Web-based interventions offer a scalable approach to support patient self-management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the feasibility of a novel Web-based intervention for intermittent catheter self-management.
• To evaluate the acceptability and usability of digital and in-person components of the intervention.

Main Methods:

• A pilot study involving 30 adults with spinal cord injury using intermittent catheterization.
• Intervention components included a mobile-adapted online diary, educational booklet, nurse phone calls, and a peer forum.
• Feasibility and preliminary effectiveness were assessed via online surveys and interviews at baseline and 3 months.

Main Results:

• The intervention was highly rated for usefulness and usability, except for the discussion forum.
• Significant improvement was observed in neurogenic bladder dysfunction self-management (P = .032).
• Catheterization frequency and self-efficacy scores showed modest improvements; UTI and pain rates did not change significantly.

Conclusions:

• The Web-based intermittent catheter self-management intervention demonstrates feasibility and positive participant reception.
• Further investigation in a larger, multi-site randomized clinical trial is warranted.
• The intervention shows potential for improving self-management in neurogenic bladder dysfunction.