Does Negligence of Ureteral Double J Stent Affect Patients’ Quality of Life? (Comparative Study)

Background: Ureteral double J stents are commonly used tools in urology for the management of various urological conditions. However, it is not devoid of morbidity. Aim: To assess the effect of neglected ureteral double J stent on the patients' quality of life and conducting a comparative study. Research design: Comparative research design was utilized to conduct this study. Setting: Urology operation at Assiut University Urology and Nephrology Hospital. Sample: A convenience sample of "70" patients were undergoing ureteral double J stent removal, their ages from "18 - 65" years. Patient divided into 2 group: non-neglected group (less than 120 days) included 40 patients and neglected group (more than 120 days) included 30 patients. Tools: Tool (I) Patient assessment sheet, Tool (II) Ureteral stent related symptoms and Tool (III) King's health questionnaire . Results: Median age of patients was (39.50) years. Hematuria, urinary tract infection, and stone formation were encountered in 56.7%, 50%, and 63.3% of neglected patients, versus 27.5%, 20%, and 2.5% of non-neglected patients, respectively. Neglected patients have a lower overall quality of life than non-neglected patients. Conclusion: Negligence of ureteral double J stent, accompanied by acute side effects, affected and reduced the patient's quality of life. Recommendations: Educational booklet should be available to all patients with ureteral double J stent.