Informed choices for long-term benefits. The management of catheters in continence care.

1. Non-invasive methods of managing urinary dysfunction should be considered as alternatives to long-term catheterisation and reviewed on a regular basis. 2. Nurses must match choice of catheter and drainage equipment with the individual patient, to enhance self-care and independence. 3. Monitoring of catheter life can establish a pattern of recurrent blockage and allow pro-active, planned recatheterisation. 4. Good handwashing practice is important in catheter management to reduce the risk of cross-infection.