Report on users, and user experience with discreet catheters in The Netherlands

Abstract

Those using intermittent catheterization (IC) have many catheter types and styles to select from; including what manufacturers refer to as discreet catheters. Discreet catheters are often manufactured to be smaller in length, coiled in design, or foldable, thus allowing for easier concealment or discretion when carried in public and offering a degree of personal privacy. This study explores discreet catheter use and its alignment with the lifestyle experience of those who use such catheters. This study assesses the user and user experience with discreet catheters. User experience is defined as catheter choice, associated activities, and urinary tract health. A cross-sectional survey investigated life and health status of individuals in the Netherlands requiring IC. The study enrolled 1892 individuals of which 784 use a discreet catheter as their primary catheter. Catheter choice: 82% of study respondents state they have the ability to choose the type of catheter they use. Of those indicating not having the ability to choose their catheter, they state their health care professional did not inform them of different catheters, brands, or options. Catheter associated activities: Those employed full or part time are satisfied with their discreet catheter (95.1%) claiming it is discreet, and gives them confidence to live their life the way they choose; that the catheter did not interference with social activities (72.6%), and had little to no interference with work outside of the home (76.1%). Urinary tract infections (UTI): 39.4% report a clinician diagnosed UTI within 6 months prior to the survey. The data indicates that 18.3% of the sample are deficient in UTI knowledge stating they do not know what a UTI is, or what associated symptoms are; 41% followed a clinician suggested regimen for catheterizing; 25.5% altered catheterization schedules to fit daily activities; 33.3% stated they did not follow a regimen, but catheterized when convenient The data supports positive experiences for individuals who use discreet catheters as their primary method of bladder voiding, particularly socially active individuals requiring an element of personal privacy in their life. However, UTI's are a matter of concern due to a reported deficit in knowledgeable about UTI's and symptomology.