Self-Report of Behaviors to Manage Neurogenic Bowel and Bladder by Individuals with Chronic Spinal Cord Injury: Frequency and Associated Outcomes.

Background: The management of neurogenic bowel and bladder by individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI) often requires a complicated set of behaviors to optimize functioning and reduce complications. However, limited research is available to support the many recommendations that are made. Objective: To describe the occurrence of behaviors associated with the management of neurogenic bowel and bladder among individuals with chronic SCI and to explore whether relationships exist between the performance of those behaviors and outcomes related to health and quality of life. Methods: A survey was developed based on clinical guidelines to collect self-report information about the performance of specific behaviors associated with the management of neurogenic bowel and bladder by individuals with SCI. It was administered to 246 individuals with chronic SCI living in the community as part of a larger ongoing study. Results: Results suggest that the methods that those with SCI use to manage neurogenic bowel and bladder are multifaceted. Many methods are performed with significant consistency, but significant variations exist for some and are often associated with neurological status, methods of evacuation, and quality of life. Conclusion: Many people with SCI of long duration are not sure of the sources of recommendations for some of the management activities that they or their personal care assistants conduct. It is prudent for clinicians working with these people to review their recommendations periodically to ensure that they are current and understood.