A study of self-management interventions for neurogenic bladder patients based on symptom management theory.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the clinical efficacy of a self‑management intervention programme based on symptom management theory for patients with neurogenic bladder (NB).

METHODS

One hundred NB patients treated at a rehabilitation centre between May 2023 and May 2025 who met the inclusion criteria were randomly assigned to two groups (n = 50 each). The control group received routine nursing care, while the observation group received the theory‑based self‑management intervention. Outcomes included self‑management capability, quality of life, voiding parameters (bladder capacity, residual urine volume, daily voiding frequency), NB symptoms, anxiety/depression, and neurogenic bowel function.

RESULTS

After 4 weeks, the observation group showed higher self‑management scores and bladder capacity than the control group [57 (49,66) vs. 35 (28,42) points; (376.18 ± 59.65) vs. (224.38 ± 38.13) mL], and lower quality‑of‑life scores, residual urine volume, and daily voiding frequency [(15.10 ± 5.12) vs. (22.02 ± 5.64) points; (103.56 ± 24.25) vs. (155.18 ± 57.43) mL; (9.72 ± 2.33) vs. (17.52 ± 2.87) times; all P < 0.05]. Symptom scores (NBSS, NBDS, SAS, SDS) were also lower in the observation group (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

The programme enhances self‑management, improves bladder function, alleviates symptoms, and increases quality of life in NB patients.