Can silver alloy catheters reduce infection rates?

Nurs Times. 2011;107(29):19-20, 22.

Abstract

Background: Catheter associated urinary tract infections remain a persistent challenge in healthcare practice.

Aim: To establish whether silver alloy urinary catheters reduce catheter-associated urinary tract infections compared with standard silicone or latex urinary catheters in short-term hospitalised adult patients.

Method: Analysis of eight studies using the Critical Appraisal Skills for Practitioners tool.

Results: A consistent pattern emerged that supported the effectiveness of silver alloy urinary catheters over uncoated catheters to reduce infections in adult patients.

Conclusion: Changing practice to use silver alloy catheters would have a significant impact on patient care.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Coated Materials, Biocompatible*
  • Humans
  • Infection Control / methods*
  • Silver Compounds*
  • Urinary Catheterization / adverse effects
  • Urinary Catheterization / instrumentation*
  • Urinary Catheterization / nursing
  • Urinary Tract Infections / nursing
  • Urinary Tract Infections / prevention & control*

Substances

  • Coated Materials, Biocompatible
  • Silver Compounds