Study of the effects of education on the management of urine drainage systems by patients and carers.

A randomized controlled trial was undertaken to test the effects of an education programme, which included an information booklet and demonstration, on the management of urine drainage systems by patients and carers. A total of 45 patients, new and established users, were included. Data were collected at pretest, test and follow-up visits. The education programme was found to improve significantly the performance of handwashing after bag emptying and before and after bag changing, although this effect did not persist over time. The findings are discussed with a number of conclusions drawn and recommendations for nursing practice.