Appropriateness of use of indwelling urinary catheters in patients admitted to the medical service.

Of 836 medical admissions evaluated over a 1-month period, 89 (10.7%) had a urinary catheter placed within 24 hours; 34 placements (38%) had no justifiable indication. Risk for inappropriate catheterization was independent of age, gender, functional status, and mental status at admission. Preventive measures should focus on increasing awareness among healthcare providers.