Management of long-term urethral catheters: minimizing complications.

Urinary tract infections, tissue damage and encrustation of the catheter, which may cause blockage, are all complications that can arise during long-term catheterization. It is important for nurses to provide effective catheter care in order to minimize the incidence of these complications. There is still controversy in the nursing literature about certain aspects of catheter management. This article explores a number of aspects of catheter care and suggests a rationale for effective and safe management, including the choice of catheter, choice of drainage system, care of the individual and the care of catheter and drainage system.