ABSTRACT
Objective:
to evaluate the use of an online forum for people with myelomeningocele and their families and the profile of the users, based on intermittent catheterization.
Method:
a quantitative, cross-sectional, descriptive and exploratory study. Data was collected from users of the online forum, based on an online questionnaire available from March 20 to April 20, 2015. Sample consisted of 30 users. Descriptive statistical data analyses and chi-square test were performed.
Results:
among users, 27% were people with myelomeningocele and 73% were family members. Age, considering the total sample, ranged from 22 to 58 years old. Women represented 67% of the sample. Most users considered the language used in the forum understandable, and also thought the forum had a proper layout and was easy to navigate. It was noted that the mother and the person with myelomeningocele are the main responsible people for intermittent catheterization; 86% use a simple plastic catheter and 14% use a hydrophilic catheter; 81% do not reuse the catheter, 10% use the same catheter for one day and 9% for up to one week. The main place chosen to perform intermittent catheterization was the bed, followed by the toilet and wheelchairs.
Conclusion:
the use of the online forum was well evaluated by the users. It can be considered a means to obtain information, create a support network and clarify any doubts, empowering users and contributing to adherence to intermittent catheterization, which is one of the treatments for neurogenic bladder.
DESCRIPTORS
Myelomeningocele; Internet; Rehabilitation; Intermittent urethral catheterization; Health education