Troubleshooting common problems associated with long-term catheters

A catheter complications survey study, carried out over a 2-year period in three Bristol health districts, recorded 506 emergency referrals during a 6-month period (Kohler-Ockmore and Feneley, 1996). A further detailed study on 54 of the patients showed that 48% experienced catheter blockage and 37% reported urine bypassing. Urinary catheterization can cause many health problems; bacteriuria is inevitable in long-term catheterized patients (Cravens and Zweig, 2000). This article identifies some of the common problems that can occur with long-term catheters, makes recommendations and applies an evidence-based approach to catheter care. In order to identify and treat the associated problems, it is necessary to understand the anatomy and functions of the bladder. The article addresses this before examining the problems, which include: catheter blockage; bypassing of urine; catheter rejection and balloon non-deflation; and latex allergy. The psychological and social aspects, although not covered in this article, are also important and should always be considered along with all other aspects of care.