Innovation in catheter securement devices: minimising risk of infection, trauma and pain.

Urinary catheters are one of the most common invasive devices used in the NHS. The risks are well-documented and the practice of catheterisation of the bladder has been around for years. Traditionally catheter fixation devices have not been widely used, despite many best practice guidelines advising on their use as a standard within catheter care and maintenance. This article considers some of the evidence around urinary catheterisation and the benefits and limitations of fixation devices. There will be a product focus on the Optimum Medical Ugo Fix Gentle catheter fixation device, with case histories to demonstrate patient satisfaction with the product.