The importance of fixation and securing devices in supporting indwelling catheters.

Health-care professionals follow recognised national guidelines to assess clinical reasons for the insertion of urinary catheters. However, the use of fixation and securing devices is an area that is often neglected. Health-care professionals sometimes employ a 'do-it-yourself' approach, using adhesive tape or Velcro strapping devices, neither of which are appropriate. If urinary catheters are not secured appropriately, they can lead to severe trauma of a patient's urethra, potential damage to bladder neck, infection and inflammation, pain and irritation, possible bypassing, accidental dislodging of a catheter and a cleaving (condition whereby the catheter splits the penile or labial tissues). This article identifies reasons for using securing/fixation devices and explains the advantages and disadvantages of the different types of device in relation to individual patients.