Latent classes analysis and associated factors of knowledge of intermittent catheterization in neurogenic bladder management among medical staff

Abstract

Previous studies have demonstrated that intermittent catheterization (IC) is an effective management strategy for neurogenic bladder (NB), but the knowledge of medical staff in this field remains under-researched. This cross-sectional study aimed to explore the profile of medical staff's knowledge regarding IC in NB management and its associated factors. In August 2023, we conducted a convenience sampling survey involving 207 eligible medical staff from high-prevalence departments of NB at a tertiary general hospital in Nanchong, Southwest China. Data analysis was performed using latent class analysis (LCA) and logistic regression analysis. The results showed that respondents' knowledge of IC in NB management scored 10.27 ± 2.89 (maximum possible score of 16). The LCA identified two distinct profiles: a high knowledge group (57.97%) and a low knowledge group (42.03%). Logistic regression revealed that individuals with a college degree or above (OR = 2.15, 95% CI 1.14-4.07), those focusing on NB management (OR = 4.07, 95% CI 2.21-7.49), and those who received relevant training (OR = 2.81, 95% CI 1.57-5.02) were more likely to be in the high level group. Additionally, variations in knowledge profiles were observed across different departments. These findings indicate a need to enhance medical staff's understanding of IC in NB management in high-prevalence departments of NB, with targeted training programs as a potential solution. Notably, the use of convenience sampling and a single-center design in this study may constrain the generalizability of these findings, necessitating multicenter validation studies in the future.

Keywords: Intermittent catheterization; Knowledge; Latent classes analysis; Medical staff; Neurogenic bladder.

Fig. 1

The conditional probability distribution of two latent classes (N = 207). Note: Q1-Q8: Question 1 to 8-the etiology, clinical manifestations, examinations, treatment goals, follow-up, and medications of neurogenic bladder; Q9-Q16: Question 9 to 16-the prerequisites, hydration plans, fluid intake control, scheduling, operational precautions, contraindications, and the benefits of IC.

Fig. 2

Forest plot of logistic regression analysis for latent classes (N = 207).