An interpretative phenomenological analysis of spousal carers' experiences of caring for their partner with a long-term, indwelling urinary catheter

Fowler, Sarah E

Abstract

This PdD thesis reports an idiographic study employing Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) to explore the experiences of spousal carers when their partner has a long-term indwelling urinary catheter (LTIC). The aim was to inform and improve practice.

The study was conducted in two parts. In Part I, six spousal carers were interviewed about their experiences when their partner had a LTIC. To further explore their adjusting to the device and to consider the wider impact of a catheter on their relationship, Part II consisted of three dyad case studies. The three 'cases' included LTIC users who had Multiple Sclerosis (MS) and their spousal carers.

Findings revealed a continuum of adjusting, with setbacks influenced by external factors such as LTIC problems, poor communication and deterioration in both parties' health. The LTIC users increasingly needed their spouse's support with LTIC care over-time and this necessitated adjustments to their lifestyle. As part of these changes, relationships were renegotiated. Participants incorporated aspects of 'trade-off' within their lives as part of adjusting - what they were willing to adapt, concede or accept in order to adjust to their life now.

Citation

Fowler, S. E. An interpretative phenomenological analysis of spousal carers' experiences of caring for their partner with a long-term, indwelling urinary catheter. (Thesis). University of the West of England. Retrieved from https://uwe-repository.worktribe.com/output/1491302

• Thesis Type: Thesis
• Publicly Available Date: Sep 9, 2019
• Keywords: informal carers' experiences, urinary catheters, Interpretative phenomenological analysis
• Public URL: https://uwe-repository.worktribe.com/output/1491302
• Award Date: Sep 9, 2019