Indwelling urinary catheterisation is a common procedure especially within a community setting. However, healthcare professionals are sometimes unaware of what is current best evidenced-based practice. This article outlines the clinical indicators for insertion of a urinary catheter, rationale for catheter selection, including Charrière (Ch) or French gauge (Fg), length, balloon size and material of choice including any coating. Catheter insertion requirements are outlined and drainage and supporting/securing devices discussed. Complications of indwelling catheters, such as catheter-associated infections and encrustation are also discussed with recommendations for treating, and, finally, new innovations which may benefit in future care are identified — all with reference to current national guidance and best clinical evidence-based practice.
Thanks to everyone who entered the JCN/GPN Outstanding Practice in Wound Care Award 2018. We received a huge number of entries that demonstrated all the excellent wound care being delivered in the community around the UK. Read more about the winning team here.
The importance of an asthma review at least annually is clearly evidenced by guidelines and, importantly, was highlighted in the ‘National Review of Asthma Deaths’ report as an opportunity for assessment and education that could help prevent asthma deaths (Royal College of Physicians [RCP], 2014). Community nurses are in an ideal position to ensure that all patients with asthma have reviews. This article aims to clearly set out what these should include, give practical advice as to how to carry out an asthma UHYLHZDQGZK\WKHGLͿHUHQWHOHPHQWVRIDQDVWKPDUHYLHZ are important.
