Study of the effects of education on patients' knowledge and acceptance of their indwelling urethral catheters.

A randomized controlled trial was undertaken to test the effects of an education programme, which included an information booklet, on patients' knowledge and acceptance of their indwelling urethral catheters. A total of 45 patients participated, all of whom were either established or new catheter users. Data were collected at pretest, test and follow-up visits. The information booklet and researcher were found to significantly influence patients' knowledge and acceptance of their catheters. The findings are discussed with a number of conclusions drawn and recommendations for current practice.