Reducing the risk of infection with indwelling urethral catheters.

Reducing the risk of healthcare associated infection (HCAI) is a key government target (Department of Health, 2003). Indwelling urethral catheters are one of the most common invasive medical devices used in acute care settings and, consequently, are a frequent cause of HCAI. This article describes 10 key issues and best practice points for practitioners to consider when caring for someone who requires short term urinary catheterisation, in other words, for fewer than 30 days.