Comparison of catheter-securing devices.

Care of urethral urinary catheters is a major part of urologic nursing. Basic procedures, such as securing of urinary catheters, are poorly researched or reported in the literature. The question of how to secure a urinary catheter and with what device often relies on knowledge, availability of equipment, and on information supplied by manufacturers of commercial devices. Manufacturers claim that their devices are easier to apply, have longer "wear-times," add to patient comfort, prevent infection, and are thus more cost effective than the traditional adhesive tape and pin device. However, it was discovered in this study that sometimes the cheaper, more easily accessible option can still be the best for patients.