Selecting the right urinary leg bag drainage system for patient needs.

There are many clinical reasons why a patient may require indwelling urinary catheterization. Selecting the most appropriate closed drainage system to be used in conjunction with an indwelling catheter is essential to reducing the patient's risk of developing catheter-associated urinary tract infection (CAUTI). Leg bags are one of the options available, however, evidence suggests patients may find these products problematic during daily activity. Careful assessment of patients' needs when selecting a leg bag enables the nurse to identify the individual's specific product needs, thereby reducing the risk of difficulties for the patient during daily use. This article focuses on key areas for consideration when selecting a leg bag.