Ayla Yavuz KaramanoÄŸlu
Pamukkale University, Turkey
Title: Urinary Incontinence Experiences of Patients After Radical Prostatectomy
Biography
Biography: Ayla Yavuz KaramanoÄŸlu
Abstract
This mixed type study in which qualitative and quantitative methods were used together was performed to determine urinary incontinence experiences of patients after radical prostatectomy. The data of the research were collected by interviewing 44 patients with 6 focus groups. Data were collected by using a questionnaire form containing identifying information of patients, semi-structured focus group questionnaire form, incontinence quality of life scale, and short-form of consultation on international urinary incontinence and incontinence impact questionnaire form.
It was determined as a result of the statistical analysis performed that patients' urinary incontinence quality of life was moderate. The difference between patients' age groups, post-operation durations, status of taking measure, using equipment and underpads and the mean scores of quality of life was found statistically significant (p<0.05). A total of six focus-groups interviews, being early, middle and late phases, were performed considering post-operation time period. A total of four (4) themes, namely, half-human, an unpleasant job, surviving as great prize and social isolation, was identified as a result of the study. It was observed that most of the patients felt themselves physically inadequate due to urinary incontinence and erectile dysfunction developed postoperatively and they were informed about these matters by their physicians. It was found out that patients took advantage of Kegel exercises in recovering continence and pads and similar materials in coping with urinary incontinence. It was observed that they experienced social isolation due to urinary incontinence in early postoperative period. It was determined that patients experienced physical, psychological and social difficulties due to urinary incontinence in the early postoperative period and that their lives were affected adversely. It was discovered that incontinences of patients in the late postoperative phase decreased, but their sexual life-related problems continued.