Management of the long-term indwelling catheter in the home setting.

The proper management of the long-term indwelling catheter in the home setting is particularly challenging. An improperly managed catheter can lead to significant complications and costs. Proper catheter selection and a carefully designed preventive program of catheter care can prevent or minimize the impact of many potentially costly complications, including leakage around the catheter, encrustation, irritation, obstruction, and symptomatic urinary tract infection.