Definition A catheter associated urinary tract infection (UTI) is an inflammation or infection of the bladder. This type of UTI is caused by using a urinary catheter. A urinary catheter is a thin tube that is placed through the urethra to drain urine from the bladder.
A urinary catheter is used:
during and after some surgeries
to collect a urine specimen
to monitor accurate urine output
when the bladder isn't working due to illness or injury
What is going on in the body? When a urinary catheter is put into the bladder, there is a chance that bacteria may be introduced. This may occur if:
the catheter is inserted under unsterile conditions
bacteria spread along the outside of the tube after it is inserted into the bladder
The bacteria multiply in the bladder and cause a urinary tract infection. Bacteria called aerobic gram-negative rods account for most catheter-associated UTI's.
What are the signs and symptoms of the infection? Only 20% to 30% of people with catheter associated UTI's have symptoms. When symptoms are present, they may include:
use intermittent catherisation rather than leaving the urinary catheter in place continuously. With intermittent catheterisation, the catheter is removed as soon as urine is drained from the bladder. Intermittent catheterisation is done several times each day.
be sure the catheter is inserted under sterile conditions
apply an antibacterial ointment at the opening of the urethra
place the urinary drainage bag below the level of the bladder so that urine can flow easily into it
How is the infection diagnosed? A catheter associated urinary tract infection is diagnosed by obtaining a urine specimen and sending it to the laboratory for a urine culture.
What are the long-term effects of the infection? Untreated urinary tract infections can lead to bacteraemia. Bacteraemia is a condition where bacteria enter the bloodstream. This can be a life threatening illness.
What are the risks to others? A catheter associated urinary tract infection is not contagious.
What are the treatments for the infection? A catheter associated UTI is treated with antibiotics. The antibiotic chosen will depend on the type of the bacteria found in the urine. If a fever is present, paracetamol should be given. The urinary catheter should be removed as soon as possible.
What are the side effects of the treatments? All medications have side effects and may cause allergic reactions. Antibiotics can cause stomach upset as well as other symptoms.
What happens after treatment for the infection? A urine culture should be done at the end of the antibiotic therapy, to make sure the infection has cleared up.
How is the infection monitored? If a person has a long-term urinary catheter in place, urine specimens should be obtained occasionally to check for any bacteria in the urine. Any new or worsening symptoms should be reported to the doctor.
Author: Reviewer: eknowhow Medical Review Panel Editor: Dr John Hearne Last Updated: 19/05/2005 Contributors Potential conflict of interest information for reviewers available on request
