Patient satisfaction with urodynamics: a qualitative study

Abstract

This qualitative study was undertaken to assess patients' views of the urodynamic investigation. The aim was to identify the dimensions important to patients in evaluating satisfaction with this type of procedure and ways in which care could be improved. Unstructured interviews were carried out by four trained interviewers with 21 people (17 female and 4 male) who had undergone the urodynamic investigation at various gynaecology, urology and continence outpatient clinics. The interviews were audio-taped and transcribed verbatim. The data was then coded and a thematic analysis carried out. The main theme to emerge was focused on patients' feelings about the procedure. This consisted of a combination of anxiety and embarrassment. Anxiety was because of fear of the unknown and embarrassment at the intimate nature of the procedure and lack of privacy. The interpersonal and communication skills of the health care professional were central in alleviating these negative feelings. The establishment of a friendly relationship based on equality and mutual respect and trust was important in preventing anxiety and embarrassment. A number of practical issues were identified that would contribute to improving the service for patients. It was found that nurses possessed all the attributes required to provide an effective service and recommendations were made that nurses specializing in continence care should take a more active role in urodynamic investigations.