Abstract

The urinary tract is the commonest source of nosocomial infection, particularly when the bladder is catheterised. A systematically reviewed guideline has been published by European association of Urology and Tenke et al. updated the guideline of catheter management. Most catheter-associated urinary tract infections (UTIs) are derived from the patient’s own colonic flora and the catheter predisposes to UTI in several ways. The most important risk factor for the development of catheter-associated UTIs is the duration of catheterization. The clinician should be aware of two priorities: the catheter system should remain closed and the duration of catheterization should be minimal. While the catheter is in place, systemic antimicrobial treatment of asymptomatic catheter-associated bacteriuria is not recommended, except for some special cases. Clinicians should always consider alternatives to indwelling urethral catheters that are less prone to causing symptomatic infection. In appropriate patients, suprapubic catheters, condom drainage systems and intermittent catheterization are each preferable to indwelling urethral catheterization.

• Keywords: Catheter, Urinary tract infections, Prevention