Primary monosymptomatic nocturnal enuresis (PMNE) is a prevalent issue among school-aged children, often impacting their quality of life and that of their families. Recent research by Thabit and Elhamed (2021) sheds light on the cognitive impairments associated with severe PMNE, particularly focusing on selective attention deficits. This blog explores the findings of their study and suggests ways for practitioners to incorporate these insights into their online therapy practices.
Key Findings from the Study
Thabit and Elhamed's study, titled "Impaired selective attention in patients with severe primary monosymptomatic nocturnal enuresis: An event-related potential study," examined the cognitive functions of children with PMNE using Event-Related Potentials (ERPs). The study included 44 children with PMNE and 23 healthy controls. The children with PMNE were further divided into two groups based on the frequency of wetting episodes: frequent wetting (severe PMNE) and infrequent wetting (mild PMNE).
Major Outcomes
- Children with severe PMNE exhibited significantly longer P300 latencies and reduced P300 amplitudes compared to both healthy controls and children with mild PMNE.
- The prolonged P300 latency and reduced amplitude suggest a delay in the maturation of the central nervous system in children with severe PMNE.
- These cognitive impairments were specifically linked to selective attention deficits.
Implications for Online Therapy
The findings of this study have several practical implications for online therapy practitioners working with children who have PMNE:
1. Assessing Cognitive Function
Incorporate cognitive assessments into your initial evaluations. Understanding the specific cognitive deficits, such as selective attention impairments, can help tailor the therapy to meet the child's needs.
2. Targeted Interventions
Develop interventions that specifically aim to improve selective attention. Techniques such as computerized cognitive training programs, mindfulness exercises, and attention-enhancing games can be integrated into the therapy sessions.
3. Multidisciplinary Approach
Collaborate with other professionals, such as neurologists and psychologists, to provide a comprehensive treatment plan. This multidisciplinary approach can address both the cognitive and emotional aspects of PMNE.
4. Parental Involvement
Educate parents about the cognitive aspects of PMNE and involve them in the therapeutic process. Providing them with strategies to support their child's attention skills at home can enhance the overall effectiveness of the therapy.
Encouraging Further Research
While this study provides valuable insights, there is still much to learn about the cognitive aspects of PMNE. Practitioners are encouraged to stay updated with the latest research and consider participating in studies that explore new therapeutic techniques and interventions.
Conclusion
Understanding the cognitive impairments associated with severe PMNE can significantly enhance the effectiveness of online therapy. By incorporating targeted interventions and a multidisciplinary approach, practitioners can better support children with PMNE and improve their quality of life.To read the original research paper, please follow this link:
Impaired selective attention in patients with severe primary monosymptomatic nocturnal enuresis: An event-related potential study.
