
Wan Najwa Wan Mohd Zohdi
Universiti Teknologi MARA, MalaysiaPresentation Title:
The Crucial Role of Nurses in the Evaluation and Management of Neurogenic Bladder
Abstract
Neurogenic
bladder is an abnormality of the urinary system caused by neurological conditions such as
spinal cord injury and multiple sclerosis. Effective evaluation and management
are crucial to prevent complications such as urinary tract infections and renal
damage. Nurses play a pivotal role in the multidisciplinary approach to
neurogenic bladder evaluation, serving as both clinical assessors and patient
advocates. The nursing role involve collaborative patient assessment,
investigative measures and management strategies. Nurses are often the first to
recognize signs of urinary dysfunction and are essential in screening for red
flags such as incontinence, retention, urgency, or recurrent infections. Their
close involvement in the patient's care allows them to observe patterns over
time, enabling early detection and timely referral for further evaluation. In
collaboration with physicians and urodynamic specialists, nurses assist in the
preparation and execution of diagnostic procedures such as bladder scanning,
and urodynamic studies. They ensure proper patient education, reduce anxiety
surrounding invasive tests, and maintain strict adherence to infection control
protocols. Moreover, nurses play a key role in patient and caregiver education
regarding bladder management techniques such as intermittent catheterization,
fluid management, and hygiene practices. They contribute to individualized care
planning and provide emotional support, helping patients adapt to long-term
bladder care strategies. By integrating clinical knowledge
and compassionate care, nurses significantly contribute to early
identification, accurate evaluation, and comprehensive management of neurogenic
bladder. Their role enhances patient outcomes, supports multidisciplinary care,
and upholds quality and safety in bladder dysfunction management. Ongoing
training and involvement in research and clinical innovation are essential to
empower nurses in this expanding field of neuro-urological care.
Biography
Wan Najwa is a senior lecturer and
consultant rehabilitation physician, currently serving as head of the
Department of Rehabilitation Medicine at Faculty of Medicine UiTM and Hospital
Al-Sultan Abdullah UiTM, Malaysia. She obtained her clinical fellowship in
spinal cord injury rehabilitation in 2023 under University of Toronto that gave
her in-depth experience in clinical management for people with neurological
disabilities. She has vast experience in neurogenic bladder and bowel
management. her research interest include bone health and wound management in
disabled population.