Women’s Experiences of Interstitial Cystitis/Painful Bladder Syndrome

The aim of this study was to explore the lived experience of interstitial cystitis (IC)/painful bladder syndrome (PBS). A phenomenological approach with emphasis on reflection and openness was adopted. Twenty women diagnosed with IC an average of nine years prior to data collection produced a written account of their experiences. The textual data was analyzed using thematic analysis. Four themes were derived from data analysis: diagnostic uncertainty; restrictions and limitations on life; self-management; and interpersonal relationships and social support. Women reported issues in receiving a diagnosis of IC, undergoing numerous diagnostic tests, and experiencing multiple referrals. Having undergone numerous treatments with limited success, women sought information and management strategies outside of standard medical care and reported a negative impact on sexual and social relationships. The findings illustrate the complex nature of women’s experiences and the physical and psychological impacts and effects of IC/PBS on women’s daily lives

Health professionals' attitudes to patients' use of wearable technology

Objective: Wearable technologies for health monitoring are becoming increasingly mainstream. However, there is currently limited evidence exploring use from the perspective of healthcare professionals. This study aimed to explore health professionals’ attitudes toward their patients’ use of wearable technologies. Methods: A convenience sample of health professionals were recruited to participate in this study. Qualitative semi-structured interviews were carried out either face-to-face, via Skype or telephone. Interviews were recorded using a Dictaphone, transcribed verbatim, and analysed using Thematic Analysis. Results: Four themes emerged from the qualitative findings: ‘opportunities for wearable technology’, ‘usability and understanding’, ‘privacy and surveillance’, and ‘cost’. Conclusions: The findings portray health professionals’ ambivalence to the use of wearable technology, and it was apparent that whilst the participants considered the technology as being beneficial to patients, they still had concerns for its use