Service Evaluation of Trial Without Catheter Service Delivered in the Community Setting

ABSTRACT This Service Evaluation of a Trial Without a Catheter service (TWOC) provided by a community Bladder and Bowel Service focuses on exploring and identifying areas for improvement within the service. The evaluation provides insight into the effectiveness of a Trial Without a Catheter service in the community and has examined the impact of this service provision on patients' quality of care by seeking patients' overall satisfaction as service users. A quantitative design has been used for data collection, complemented by some qualitative questions. An evaluation questionnaire was designed and distributed to 56 participants to investigate the views of service users. Using Likert scaling statements, with the option to expand the comment text box, the strengths of patients' feelings and satisfactions towards the Trial Without a Catheter service were assessed. The mean age of the participants was 65–84 (range, 25 to 85+) years. There were 24 male and 7 female patients, with urinary retention being the most frequently stated reason for catheterisation. In relation to the experience, in total, 90% of participants who responded either agreed or strongly agreed that the preferred location to have the procedure carried out was at home. Themes raised in relation to the experience were communication, patient's level of stress and anxiety and the impact of Trial Without a Catheter procedure on patients' quality of life. In relation to satisfaction, 100% of the participants stated that they strongly agreed or agreed to being satisfied with the overall care they received from the Trial Without a Catheter service. This Service Evaluation has revealed a high level of patient satisfaction with the Trial Without a Catheter service being performed at home; however, the findings indicate areas of potential improvement regarding communication prior to the procedure. The contribution of the bladder and bowel service has led to improved patients' outcomes.