ABSTRACT
We examined the effects of simulation training on the acquisition of self-catheterization skills in 2 female children with spina bifida. Based on a task analysis, the children were taught to perform on a doll each of the components of preparation, and, using a mirror to locate the urinary meatus, to insert and remove the catheter and to clean-up. Before, during, and after training, the children's performance of the skills on the doll and on themselves was assessed. Results of a multiple baseline design across subjects and skill components showed that doll training facilitated the children's acquisition of self-catheterization skills.
Subject(s)
Behavior Therapy/methods , Meningomyelocele/rehabilitation , Self Care/methods , Urinary Bladder, Neurogenic/rehabilitation , Urinary Catheterization/methods , Child , Child, Preschool , Female , Humans , Imitative BehaviorABSTRACT
A new technique is described which enables children with neurogenic bladder secondary to myelodysplasia to learn self-catheterization prior to their school years. Inexpensive dolls, complete with male or female genitalia, and a specially designed mirror to magnify the female children's genitalia, were used with four children (three girls, one boy) with mental ages of five years. Each child successfully demonstrated self-catheterization within two days, and gradual progress toward complete independence has been promoted.
