Can silver alloy catheters reduce infection rates?
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1School of Nursing, Midwifery and Health, University of Stirling.
Background:
Catheter associated urinary tract infections remain a persistent challenge in healthcare practice.
Aim:
To establish whether silver alloy urinary catheters reduce catheter-associated urinary tract infections compared with standard silicone or latex urinary catheters in short-term hospitalised adult patients.
Method:
Analysis of eight studies using the Critical Appraisal Skills for Practitioners tool.
Results:
A consistent pattern emerged that supported the effectiveness of silver alloy urinary catheters over uncoated catheters to reduce infections in adult patients.
Conclusion:
Changing practice to use silver alloy catheters would have a significant impact on patient care.
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