Nursing care that minimize urinary risk of infections of adult patients

Abstract

Urinary Tract lnfections [UTl] are responsible for 40% of intra-hospital infections UH], making them the most common of the intra-hospital infections (Hampton, 2004; Jonson, Kuskowski 8 Wilt, 2006). Of these, 80% are associated with the presence of a permanent urinary catheter (Hampton, 2004; Pomfret 8 Tew, 2004). This should be taken into consideration with interventions related to urinary catheters, as the placement and management of these are carried out in a clinical setting under the supervision of a professional nurse. Such consideration should include not only technique, but also evaluation of risk factors in order to minimize the infections. To do this, both resources and the best available evidence should be considered in order to assure a high quality of care for the patient. The objective of the present literature review is to become familiar with nursing interventions and care which minimize risk factors for UTl in hospitalized adult patients. A systematic database search was done utilizing PUBMED, PROQUEST and COCHRANE with articles published in the last five years. The evidence found estab^lishes that the most important techniques for the minimizing of risk factors for UTl are the following: maintaining a dosed circuit, manipulation of the sterile field, and the removal of the catheter as soon as possible.