The Effect of Clean Intermittent Catheterization on Family and Social Relationships

Clean intermittent catheterization (CIC) is widely accepted for managing bladder dysfunction, preserving kidney function, and achieving continence. While CIC is frequently used in children, its impact on family and social relationships is not well understood. This study aims to explore the experience of children and adolescents needing CIC along with their families regarding the impact of CIC on their family and social life. This qualitative interview-based study used a phenomenological approach to gather information from patients and families between Aug 2018 and Oct 2019. Interviews were audio recorded, transcribed, and coded, focusing on CIC’s impact on relationships with caregivers, siblings, friends, and intimate partners, and the use of or desire for peer-to-peer connection with individuals with similar medical conditions. A total of 52 interviews among 40 families were conducted. Common themes central to patient and family experiences were identified, including (1) navigation of CIC in relationships between patients and their caregivers, siblings, friends, and intimate partners; (2) communication and collaboration between caregivers when approaching CIC; and (3) relationship building with individuals with similar medical needs and members of their interprofessional team. These findings underscore the importance of collaborative family dynamics and the interprofessional team’s role in facilitating supportive relationships. Pediatric psychologists are uniquely positioned to provide interventions that can help patients and families encourage open communication, identify coping strategies, manage disclosure about CIC to peers and intimate partners, facilitate peer-to-peer mentorship, and provide education on sexual health to patients, families, and other members of the interprofessional team.