Hessen et al compiled risk factors associated with urinary tract infections associated with placement of a urinary catheter. This can help identify a patient who may require closer monitoring, prophylaxis or removal of the catheter.
Risk factors for infection:
(1) female gender
(2) microbial colonization of the drainage bag
(3) duration of catheterization
(4) diabetes mellitus
(5) use of the catheter for reasons other than for drainage during surgery or for measurement of urinary output
(6) presence of an elevated serum creatinine (renal failure)
(7) errors in catheter care
The risk of infection increases with the number of risk factors present or the severity of individual risk factors.
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