This measure ensured that each nurse could immediately know the catheters insertion date and when it should be replaced. This is critically important information for the reasons mentioned previously. The Foley is a primary source of nosocomial infections and can very seriously impact the care of patients. I became curious to know how the policy of changing the catheter monthly came to be. In other words, what was the evidence to suggest that one month may be superior to three weeks or perhaps every five …show more content…
The Proteus mirabilis and other bacteria easily travel along the outer and/or inner surface of the catheter, usually within 2-10 days of insertion (Davey, 2015). Shortly after this period, the bacteria create a biofilm, which is a living layer of cells, on the catheter 's outer surface. This biofilm in turn produces a 'sticky ' substance known as glycocalyx (a glycoprotein-polysaccharide covering that surrounds the cell membranes of some bacteria), which sticks to the surface of the catheter, often creating a protective shield between the bacteria and the antibiotic therapy (Davey, 2015). Additionally, these bacteria also produce ammonia, which raises the urine pH, causing “crystals of calcium and magnesium phosphates to precipitate in the urine and in the catheter biofilm” (Stickler, 2014). As this process progresses, the crystalline biofilm can eventually block the flow of urine through the catheter. This causes the urine to either leak along the outside of the catheter or to be retained, causing painful distension of the bladder and reflux of urine into the kidneys (Stickler, 2014). If this is ignored, the crystals form bladder stones, which are extremely difficult to eliminate. If blocked catheters are not promptly identified and changed, serious complications can occur,