Inappropriate use of urinary catheters seems to persist, according to research published in the American Journal of Infection Control.
Researchers conducted a prospective review of 436 patients admitted to a medical-surgical unit from October-December 2007. Overall, 157 urinary catheters were used for 144 patients for a total 557 urinary catheter days.
Of the 557 catheter days, researchers concluded 175 days (31.4 percent) were inappropriate based on study criteria. In addition, improper use of urinary catheters was associated with longer duration of hospitalization. The researchers concluded the total number of catheters used and total duration of catheterization were risk factors.
Researchers conducted a prospective review of 436 patients admitted to a medical-surgical unit from October-December 2007. Overall, 157 urinary catheters were used for 144 patients for a total 557 urinary catheter days.
Of the 557 catheter days, researchers concluded 175 days (31.4 percent) were inappropriate based on study criteria. In addition, improper use of urinary catheters was associated with longer duration of hospitalization. The researchers concluded the total number of catheters used and total duration of catheterization were risk factors.
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