Understanding urinary catheter problems from the patient's point of view.

Nurses are provided with a unique viewpoint in this article by examining the lived experience of individuals with long-term urinary catheters. Fourteen adults (ages 35-95) who had used a catheter from 6 months to 18 years were interviewed. In their own words, study participants discussed how they respond to catheter-related problems, urinary tract infection, leaking/ blocking, catheter discomfort, and autonomic dysreflexia. Using this insight will help clinicians implement mutually developed care-plan goals with patients as partners.