Care of the indwelling urinary catheter: is it evidence based?

Abstract

This article reviews evidence-based practice guidelines for the care of indwelling urinary catheters in acute, long-term, and home care settings. Upon completion of this reading, the clinician will have a better understanding of urinary catheter management of short-term and long-term placement, possible complications from catheter use, the importance of alternative options for catheter placement, and recommendations for patient education. Basic infection prevention, existing catheter types, and the differences between men and women with the use of these catheters will also be addressed. Practices that are no longer recommended, as well as present research on the use of silver alloy catheters and their role in preventing infection, are summarized.