Development and randomised controlled trial of a Continence Product Patient Decision Aid for men postradical...

To develop and evaluate an evidence-based Continence Product Patient Decision Aid (CP-PDA) to reduce decisional conflict and support continence product choice for men postradical prostatectomy.

In 2018, 1.3 million men globally were diagnosed with prostate cancer. A common treatment is radical prostatectomy, usually leading to sudden onset of urinary incontinence. For people experiencing incontinence, products to contain leakage are fundamental to health-related quality of life, but many product users and healthcare professionals are unaware of available options. No evidence-based guidance on choosing products exists despite known physical and psychological burdens of poorly managed leakage (e.g. isolation, anxiety, depression, skin damage).

4 phases, underpinned by international decision aid guidance. Evidence/expert opinion: Literature review; consultation with specialist continence clinicians (n = 7) to establish evidence base. Prototype: CP-PDA developed with continence specialist (n = 7) feedback. Alpha testing (stakeholders): CP-PDA materials were provided to expert patients (n = 10) and clinicians (n = 11) to assess content/presentation. Beta testing (field) following CONSORT guidelines, registered NIHR CPMS 31077: Men (n = 50) postradical prostatectomy randomised to evaluate usability and decision-making using the Decisional Conflict Scale compared with usual care.

An algorithm differentiating patients by mobility, dependency, cognitive impairment and type/level of leakage, leading to 12 user groups, was developed. For each group, an option table and associated product information sheets guide product choice. Total Decisional Conflict Score for men using the CP-PDA was significantly better than for men without. CP-PDA users reported greater confidence in product knowledge and choice.

This is the first evidence-based CP-PDA, developed using an internationally recognised method. Compared to usual care, it significantly reduced decisional conflict for men choosing continence products postprostatectomy.

The CP-PDA provides nurses with the first comprehensive, evidence-based intervention to help postprostatectomy men in complex continence product choices. An online version is available: www.continenceproductadvisor.org.