Urinary catheters Resources

Health care should aim to heal rather than harm. Sometimes traditional or routine practices which are not evidence-based can affect a person’s health and wellbeing. They may experience minor issues such as the adverse effects of a medicine, major issues such as  developing Clostridium difficile, or even death as a result of antimicrobial resistance (AMR). NHS hospital staff insert around two million urinary catheters each year (Shackley et al, 2017; NHS Digital, 2023). In some cases, antibiotic prophylaxis is given on insertion or removal of the catheter (Scarlato et al, 2017; Morris et al, 2023). Inappropriate urinary catheterisation and misuse of antibiotics expose individuals to a number of risks and increase the risk of antibiotic resistance. This paper examines the evidence base for antibiotic prophylaxis upon insertion and removal of urinary catheters. The author argues that a more holistic approach to care which reduces the routine use of indwelling catheters is required.

Lynda Eastwood discusses the need for innovation in catheter care practice

Lynda Eastwood, Senior Territory Manager (Fylde Coast), Bard Limited

Article accepted for publication: February 2009

Hayley Grist discusses the need for clinically effective infection control policies in the management of indwelling urinary catheters

Hayley Grist RGN, Dip HE Nursing is a Staff Nurse at Leighton Hospital, Crewe, Cheshire

Article accepted for publication: March 2009