Quality of life of patients using intermittent urinary catheterization

This study examines the quality of life (QoL) of patients with neurogenic bladder who use intermittent urinary catheterization in Brazil and Portugal. It looks at how factors like independence, social relationships, and access to work impact their overall well-being. The study found that in both countries, improvements in urinary symptoms, independence, self-confidence, and social relationships can positively influence the QoL of these patients. Access to work activities also plays a significant role. The research highlights the importance of healthcare professionals, especially nurses, in supporting these patients. By helping them gain independence and manage their condition effectively, nurses can contribute to a better QoL.

• 1
  Brazilian patients showed higher QoL scores in the psychological domain, while Portuguese patients scored lower in the environmental domain.
• 2
  In Brazil, a significant relationship was found between marital status and the physical and psychological domains, with single patients or those living with a fixed partner reporting better QoL.
• 3
  Portuguese patients who practiced intermittent urinary self-catheterization had higher QoL scores in the physical domain and in the general QoL question.