Healthcare Practices

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Procedure
Risk factors
Technique


Procedure

Bladder instillation involves introducing a therapeutic liquid (e.g. a therapeutic treatment agent) into the bladder and leaving it there for a variable ‘holding time’ to dissolve particulates or encrustations, alter pH or suppress bacterial growth.

Bladder washout involves introducing a sterile fluid into the bladder, then allowing it to drain almost immediately, in order to dilute the bladder contents or remove an obstruction and restore free catheter drainage.


Risk factors

More than 20% of patients with long-term catheters experience catheter encrustation and blockage. The likelihood of encrustation depends on patient factors, catheter materials and bacterial organisms. However, there is no evidence to support the use of bladder instillation or washout in preventing catheter-associated infections. Furthermore, bladder instillation, washout or irrigation with antiseptic or antimicrobial agents may have local toxic effects and may contribute to the development of resistant micro-organisms. There is a risk of introducing infection should procedures not be performed correctly.


Technique

Bladder instillation, washout or irrigation do not prevent catheter-associated infection, and are therefore not routinely recommended. However, continuous or intermittent bladder irrigation may be necessary during urological surgery or to manage catheter obstruction.

This content is not intended nor does it replace individual professional advice. Please contact a healthcare professional or seek advice from NHS Direct (0845 46 47) NHS Direct Wales (0845 46 47) or NHS 24 in Scotland (08454 24 24 24).

last reviewed 01 March 2005
last updated 09 March 2005

 

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