A programme for children with nocturnal enuresis

AIM: To describe and evaluate the implementation, effects and outcomes of a nurse-managed nocturnal enuresis treatment programme. METHOD: The research design comprised three data sources: focus group interviews with six public health nurses providing the nocturnal enuresis treatment programme, case notes of a convenience sample of 30 children who had completed the treatment programme and interviews with seven children who had completed the programme. RESULTS: The study showed a success rate of 87 per cent (n = 26). Success was defined as maintaining nocturnal continence for 14 consecutive nights. Key aspects in the programme's success and delivery included the child taking responsibility for the programme instead of the parent, the nature of the nurse-child interaction and the nurses' flexibility in adapting the programme for each child. CONCLUSION: The children had experienced low self-esteem as a result of nocturnal enuresis, but success on the programme dramatically improved their self-esteem and ability to socialise with other children. The study affirmed the value of the nurse as the facilitator of this programme. The study has contributed to the knowledge base on the management of nocturnal enuresis in a community-based nurse-managed programme.