Caring for catheterized patients: urinary catheter maintenance.

This article brings together the evidence and opinions surrounding the ongoing problem of catheter blockage and how to help maintain catheter life. The reasons behind blockage are examined as well as the roles that pH testing and building a comprehensive catheter history, including all aspects of patients' general health, play in caring for the catheterized patient. The use of catheter-maintenance solutions is addressed with discussion on smaller volumes, the use of double instillations and gentle technique for a shorter time of instillation and improvement in catheter-intervention techniques.