Exploring the Quality of Life of Men Living With an Indwelling Urethral Catheter: A Study at Tema General Hospital.

Abstract

Men living with indwelling urethral catheter, encounter lifestyle changes that affect their perception of quality of life. This study sought to explore the quality of life of men living with indwelling urethral catheter, The Response Shift Model of Sprangers and Schwartz (1999) was the organising framework for this study an explorative descriptive design was employed. A purposive sampling technique was used and data was gathered from 13 participants using semi-structured interview guide. All interviews were audio recorded, transcribed verbatim and analysed using thematic content analyses. Interviews were conducted in three (3) months (January to March, 2018). Confidentiality, anonymity, and privacy were ensured. The themes were based on the framework from the model’s constructs: the antecedents, mechanisms, response shift, and the perceived quality of life. Findings revealed quality of life was perceived as good and poor depending on the antecedents (sociodemographic characteristics and personality). Mechanisms used in response to changes in health state were physical, psychological and spiritual. Managing the stench and positioning catheter well was a major concern. Participants had spousal and family support which facilitated coping. In response to the effect of catheter. Participant also noted the catheter was a threat to employment, marriage, finance, sexual intimacy and caused embarrassment. Psychosocial impact of living with urethral catheter affects quality of life therefore the need to develop interventions that will enhance care. Counselling services and education is recommended for participants at the clinic.