Catheter-induced Urethral Erosion
Catheter-induced Urethral Erosion
Indwelling bladder catheters are often placed when a patient requires voiding assistance. Long-term use of these catheters has been associated with significant morbidity. This case presentation describes a complete erosion of the glans, urethra, and penile skin, up to the penoscrotal junction, as an outcome from long-term use of an indwelling bladder catheter. Appropriate nursing interventions can prevent this devastating health care outcome.
Indwelling bladder catheters are commonly indicated in medical practice (Warren, Steinberg, Hebel, & Tenney, 1989). These flexible tubes are inserted into the bladder and provide continuous bladder drainage. Although these devices are simple to insert and appear safe, they have been associated with significant complications (Kunin, Douthitt, Dancing, Anderson, & Moeschberger, 1992). Prevention of these complications is especially important for the patient who requires long-term or chronic use of an indwelling bladder catheter. This article will present an incidence of complete erosion of the glans, pendulous urethra, and skin due to ineffective care of a long-term indwelling bladder catheter. This case exemplifies the need for proper medical and nursing care, which could have prevented this outcome.
Abstract and Introduction
Abstract
Indwelling bladder catheters are often placed when a patient requires voiding assistance. Long-term use of these catheters has been associated with significant morbidity. This case presentation describes a complete erosion of the glans, urethra, and penile skin, up to the penoscrotal junction, as an outcome from long-term use of an indwelling bladder catheter. Appropriate nursing interventions can prevent this devastating health care outcome.
Introduction
Indwelling bladder catheters are commonly indicated in medical practice (Warren, Steinberg, Hebel, & Tenney, 1989). These flexible tubes are inserted into the bladder and provide continuous bladder drainage. Although these devices are simple to insert and appear safe, they have been associated with significant complications (Kunin, Douthitt, Dancing, Anderson, & Moeschberger, 1992). Prevention of these complications is especially important for the patient who requires long-term or chronic use of an indwelling bladder catheter. This article will present an incidence of complete erosion of the glans, pendulous urethra, and skin due to ineffective care of a long-term indwelling bladder catheter. This case exemplifies the need for proper medical and nursing care, which could have prevented this outcome.
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