Key Points
ÎCatheter-associated (CA)-bacteriuria is the most common heathcare- associated infection in hospitals and long-term care facilities worldwide.
ÎMany episodes of CA-bacteriuria are preventable.
ÎThe most effective way to reduce CA-ASB and CA-UTI is to reduce urinary catheterization by restricting use to patients who have clear indications and by removing the catheter as soon as it is no longer needed.
Table 1. Acceptable Indications for Indwelling Urinary Catheter Use
Clinically significant urinary retention
Temporary relief or longer term drainage if medical therapy is not effective and surgical correction is not indicated.
Urinary incontinence For comfort in a terminally ill patient.
If less invasive measures (behavioral and pharmacological interventions, incontinence pads) fail and external collecting devices are not an acceptable alternative.
Accurate urine output monitoring required
Frequent or urgent monitoring needed, such as critically ill patients. Patient unable or unwilling to collect urine
During prolonged surgical procedures with general or spinal anesthesia. Selected urological and gynecological procedures in the perioperative period.