Long-term Clean Intermittent Catheterization Users’ Experience and Practical Barriers: A Qualitative Systematic Review and Meta-synthesis

Background: Clean Intermittent Catheterization (CIC) is the preferred bladder management modality among individuals afflicted with neurogenic bladder and has been deemed a safe and effective treatment. Nevertheless, extensive research reveals that adherence to CIC procedures over a prolonged period of time is less than ideal. Aims: This systematic review aims to collect qualitative information from CIC users to comprehend their actual experiences, assess the impact of CIC on their everyday life, and explore practical barriers to CIC use. Methods: Systematic searches were conducted across four databases, CINAHL, PsycINFO, PubMed, and Scopus. The author team evaluated the included articles using the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme checklist for qualitative studies. A meta-synthesis approach was employed in the analysis of the data. Findings: Eleven studies published in English met the inclusion criteria. The meta-synthesis findings based on third-order analysis confirmed twelve sub-themes that integrate into three higher-order themes, ‘psychological experience’, ‘impact on daily life’, and ‘practical barriers’.