1. INTRODUCTION
Topic
Indwelling catheters are widely applied. Catheter-associated urinary tract infection (CAUTI) is one of the most common health care-acquired infections, and 70–80% of these are attributable to use of indwelling urethral catheters. Recent prevalence surveys have reported that urinary catheters are the most common indwelling devices, with 17.5% of patients in 66 European hospitals having a catheter and 23.6% in 183 US hospitals. [1]
Although there is a lot of literature on indwelling catheters, to our knowledge, prior to our 2012 publication, there was only limited evidence-based guidance on this topic available for nurses. We have included clear illustrations, extensive references, and annotated procedures to help nurses identify potential problem areas and support effective and efficient patient care. Included are topics such as indications and contraindications, equipment, nursing principles and interventions in catheter- related care, as well as instructions to patients and carers. We also highlight the psychological and social aspects unique to the experience of patients with indwelling catheters. These aspects have a profound influence on the patients’ quality of life and supporting patients in these aspects is typically part of the nurses’ role.
Limitations
This publication focuses on suprapubic and urethral indwelling catheters. The guidelines only describe the procedures and materials in adults and not children. The content has been restricted to what is encountered in regular indwelling catheterisation practice and not in exceptional situations, unless mentioned. These guidelines are intended to complement, or provide support to, established clinical practice and should be used within the context of local policies and existing protocols.
Disclosures
The EAUN Guidelines Working Group members have provided disclosure statements of all relationships that might be a potential source of conflict of interest. The information has been stored in the EAU database. This guidelines document was developed with the financial support of the EAU.
The EAUN is a non-profit organisation and funding is limited to administrative assistance and travel and meeting expenses. No honoraria or other reimbursements have been provided.
Availability
The full text of these guidelines can be accessed on the EAUN website and in the ECRI Guidelines Trust.