Independence in the toilet activity in children and adolescents with myelomeningocele – managing clean intermittent catheterization in a hospital setting

Abstract

The children were unaware of their abilities and limitations. Time processing ability and observations are important factors to assess independence.

Children with myelomeningocele and independence in the toilet activity: A pilot study

“…In addition to problems with memory, planning, and execution (2,6), young persons with MMC do not always have a realistic view of either skills or obstacles (10,12,14). This may be the reason why the COPM outcome of performance as judged by the children scored better performance of the task before training than after, despite the fact that they managed better.…”

“…Even time-processing ability was impaired (10). Children and adolescents with MMC also find it difficult to describe their own condition in general and cause and effect especially (11).…”

“…The knowledge of various factors that influence independence in the toilet activity will also be considered (10,14,15). The process of doing should be seen and analysed both in general and in a specific sense.…”

Independent daily life for young people with myelomeningocele

“…In this issue of Acta Paediatrica, a study is presented where focus is on independence in performing toilet activities. In the present study, Donlau and Falkmer (13) have evaluated independence conducting CIC in a group of children with MMC. From their results, it is interesting to note that there is a considerable difference between the patients’ own perception of independence and the degree of independence observed in a controlled hospital toilet setting.…”

“…Not until we know from observations do we know how well our treatment is carried out and what improvements there might still be left to introduce. The example given in this study (13) should encourage us to try and better understand on how to improve independence in daily life for children with various functional problems. The first step is, as always, to correctly understand today’s situation and level of independence.…”