Experiences of labor-intensive procedures in the management of nocturnal enuresis-An explorative interview study in children and parents

Abstract

Introduction Nocturnal enuresis is a very common and socially distressing condition among children. There are qualitative studies published in children with bowel and bladder problems with a focus on health-related quality of life and the burden of the condition, but there is a lack of knowledge of the experience of managing the treatment procedures at home. From a clinical viewpoint, it can be assumed that the procedures entail a lot of work and have an impact on everyday life apart from the disorders per se, but the actual voices of the children have not been heard. Purpose To explore children's and their parents' experiences of labor-intensive procedures in the management of enuresis. Design and methods A qualitative interview study. Semi-structured interviews were held with fourteen children with enuresis six to nine years of age, together with their parents in Sweden between April 2020 and February 2021. Data were analyzed inductively with qualitative content analysis. Results The major findings showed both favorable strategies and challenges in labor-intensive management. The results are described in four categories: 1) experiences of how to manage; 2) managing procedures was a favorable experience; 3) managing procedures made it complicated and 4) problematic to remember. Conclusion Managing the treatment of enuresis at home can be challenging. There were procedures that children did not like and new routines that were difficult to remember. However, the study can suggest strategies in how to manage and overcome these difficulties.