This narrative review explores the use of external urinary catheters. These devices are available in various types and materials for male and female patients. The indications for the use of external urinary catheters include managing incontinence linked to overactive bladder and neurogenic lower urinary tract dysfunction. Contraindications to the use of external urinary catheters include urinary obstruction. Proper skin care and proactive infection control measures are necessary to prevent complications. The collection of a urine specimen for culture requires a standardized technique to prevent contamination. Clinician-led patient education on catheter management plays a important role in ensuring patient comfort and safety.
Infectious disease clinics of North America. 2024 Apr 10 [Epub ahead of print]
Corina Lopez, Barbara W Trautner, Prathit A Kulkarni
Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX 77030, USA., Center for Innovations in Quality, Effectiveness and Safety (IQuESt), Michael E. DeBakey Veterans Affairs Medical Center, 2450 Holcombe Boulevard, Suite 01Y, Houston, TX 77021, USA; Department of Medicine, Section of Health Services Research, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA., Medical Care Line, Michael E. DeBakey Veterans Affairs Medical Center, 2002 Holcombe Boulevard, Mailstop: MCL-111, Houston, TX 77030, USA; Department of Medicine, Infectious Diseases Section, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA. Electronic address: .