A comparison of two methods of sterile urethral catheterisation in spinal cord injured adults

The purpose of this study was to compare the incidence of urinary infection following sterile catheterisation after either (1) a handwash of 30 s and double gloving, (the shorter sterile technique) or (2) after a 3 minute wash from fingertips to elbows and the wearing of a sterile gown and one pair of gloves, (the longer sterile technique). Forty-six patients were randomly assigned to the two groups. No significant difference in urinary infection rates was found and as a result the more complicated technique has been discontinued.