AIMS & OBJECTIVES:The aim of the current study was to explore factors that hinder or promote adherence to clean intermittent self-catheterization (CISC) procedures in adults. BACKGROUND:Clean intermittent self-catherization is associated with favourable patient outcomes, but adherence to the procedure is not addressed in the international literature. METHODS:Relevant factors were explored in two studies. The first study (n = 10) addressed mastery and short-term adherence, whereas the second study (n = 20) addressed long-term adherence in these patients. Determinants of patient adherence were derived from pre-structured interviews with patients, using a content-analysis procedure. RESULTS:A list of 16 determinants of mastery and short-term adherence and a list of 12 determinants of long-term adherence was found. Most of these determinants were found in both older (>or=65 years of age) and younger patients. However, five determinants of mastery and short-term adherence and six determinants of long-term adherence were specific to patients under the age of 65. CONCLUSION:Our findings give a first insight into CISC adherence. General determinants of adherence relate to knowledge, complexity of the procedure, misconceptions, fears, shame, motivation and quality and continuity of professional care. Furthermore integrating CISC in everyday life can be difficult. In younger patients, availability of materials, physical impairments and resistance to a sickness role can further compromise adherence. RELEVANCE TO CLINICAL PRACTICE:Issues of knowledge, fears, motivation and potential psychological impact of performing CISC should be addressed prior to deciding on CISC and instructing patients. Follow-up care should be improved to include re-evaluations of skills, discussing adherence, integrating CISC in daily activities and general coping issues.