A literature review was performed between the months of August 2018 to December 2018 on ways to decrease unnecessary usage of Foley catheters. Ten articles were reviewed focusing on bed-bound, incontinent women. Research was performed for Spencer Hospital looking at the various ways to decrease the usage, decrease catheter-associated urinary tract infections (CAUTI’s), and decrease skin breakdown from incontinence. Through the research, it was found that a large proportion of catheters are used when they are unnecessary. Indwelling catheters present a large risk for CAUTI’s, or if there is not one used, then the risk for skin breakdown from incontinence is high. Results found the use of a physician reminder system helps to keep track of the usage of indwelling catheters and prevents them from being left in too long. A daily reminder system for bedside nurses is also recommended by the research. The literature review also found the use of PureWick External Female Catheters to be implemented in incontinent, bed-bound women. Research proves these devices provide more comfort, better sleep, less skin breakdown, and less CAUTI’s. In addition, these have proven to help in the healing process for women to regain control of their bladder.
Keywords: urinary tract infection, catheter-associated urinary tract infection, urinary incontinence, indwelling catheters, straight-catheters, external female catheters, decubitus ulcers, skin breakdown, and bed-bound females, PureWic
