Patients' perspectives on timing of urinary catheter removal after surgery

A prolonged catheter duration is a major risk factor for catheter-associated urinary tract infection, with bacteriuria increasing by 5% per day (Gokula et al, 2004).

In this study, the authors explored patients' perceptions of the care process relating to peri-operative catheterisation to identify patient factors that encourage early removal.

Semi-structured interviews, incorporating a grounded theory approach, were performed on three men and seven women during 2010. Interviews were transcribed and analysed using constant comparative method and thematic framework analysis.

Catheter duration ranged 1-10 days. Main themes elicited included: lack of understanding of the purpose and catheterisation process; loss of patient autonomy and dignity; and impact of environmental factors.

Lack of knowledge of the catheterisation process among participants led to fears and concerns that may have contributed to delayed catheter removal. Changes to patient care that are likely to reduce catheter duration include ensuring the provision of pre-operative information, greater patient involvement in catheter removal decisions, and provision of easily accessible toilet facilities.