Suprapubic catheters--a shared understanding, from the other side looking in.

OBJECTIVE The objective of this study was to explore the experiences of people living with a suprapubic catheter. METHOD This descriptive study was guided by the philosophy of Gadamerian hermeneutics. Data were gathered via indepth interviews with 6 adults living in the community who had a suprapubic catheter for long-term urinary bladder drainage. Interpretation of the data occurred via thematic analysis of the participants' stories. RESULTS Two distinct but interrelated themes emerged. Participants shifted, over time, from negative to positive experiences (psychologically, physically, and practically) to adjustment to life with a catheter. Participants also related that health professionals had not adequately prepared or supported them as they learned to live with a suprapubic catheter. Many of the participants' initial negative experiences were augmented by this deficiency. Issues revolved around perceptions of being psychologically unprepared, the changed body image, altered sexuality, and support needs. CONCLUSION The findings of this study revealed that the insertion of a suprapubic catheter brought about significant life changes for the participants. The data highlighted disparities between the needs of people who have a supra-pubic catheter and health professionals' perceptions of their needs.