Use of catheter maintenance solutions for long-term catheters.

This article identifies the problems most commonly encountered in the care of patients with long-term indwelling urinary catheters. Using individualized regimens for catheter maintenance solutions (or 'bladder washouts' as they are commonly known) minimizes the risk of infection and catheter blockage, thus reducing the need to recatheterize more than in necessary. Ever since catheters have been used for long-term urinary drainage, problems such as blockage and leakage because of encrustation have caused discomfort to the patient. Another major problem associated with catheter use is the risk of developing a urinary tract infection. Research has shown that with careful management, such as urine testing using a pH indicator strip and use of appropriate solutions, complications can be minimized. Information for this article has been obtained via a literature review, interviews and visits with district and hospital nurses, as well as from personal experience.