45%
consider UTIs to be their greatest challenge 3
For adults with neurogenic lower urinary tract dysfunction (ANLUTD), intermittent self-catheterisation (ISC) is the gold standard for bladder emptying1. ISC is best practice as it has the lowest potential for long-term complications, when compared to alternative methods of bladder emptying, such as indwelling catheterisation.1,2 However, many individuals performing ISC still suffer from urinary tract infections (UTIs) and this challenge persists throughout their life:
with 2-3
UTIs on average per year 3,4
As healthcare professionals (HCPs), it is important to reduce and prevent the occurrence of UTIs in this population. Unfortunately, IC-associated UTIs are multi-factorial4 and many factors need to be considered, making it potentially difficult to prevent and solve.
How can we navigate the multi-factorial complexity of UTIs?
This theme dives into the multi-factorial nature of UTI’s by introducing a digital version of the UTI Risk Factors Model. Built on the foundation of the peer-reviewed publication, the model provides an overview of potential risk factors related to UTIs, focusing on factors that in daily practice, can be handled and modified by the HCP and the user to benefit the individual catheter user.
A holistic understanding of Urinary Tract Infections
UTI Risk Factors Model
The UTI Risk Factors Model provides an overview of risk factors involved in urinary tract infections (UTIs).
Learn more)
How can HCPs assess UTIs together with the individual IC user?
Get to know the UTI assessment tool for intermittent catheter users. Designed for use during consultations with IC users, the tool supports a structured dialogue between HCPs and users to assess UTI risk factors in a systematic way. Learn about the tool’s development, understand the different sections and how to use it together with your patient.
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Click below to learn about key UTI risk factors such as residual urine and microtrauma, and understand what can be done to support these issues
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BladderArticle
What is the link between residual urine and UTIs?
Residual urine is a common problem among Intermittent Catheter (IC) users and remains an important risk factor for developing Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs). Discover more about the impact of residual urine and find tools to help you support your patients in avoiding this risk.
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BladderArticle
Why does urethral and bladder microtrauma occur?
Microtrauma to the urethra or the bladder is a risk factor for developing Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs). Intermittent catheterisation is one of the reasons for microtrauma which is damage to the epithelial cells. This damage contributes to the ability of bacteria to thrive. Learn more about the two types of microtraumas and their impact.
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BladderArticle
Ensure complete bladder emptying*
with Micro-hole Zone Technology
with Micro-hole Zone Technology
Micro-hole Zone Technology ensures complete bladder emptying in one free flow. By reducing mucosal suction, it eliminates the need for repositioning and reduces the risk of residual urine and microtrauma.
- B. Blok, D. Castro-Diaz, G. del Popolo et al., EAU Guidelines on Neuro-Urology, European Association of Urology, Arnhem, Netherlands, 2023, https://uroweb.org/guideline/neuro-urology/
- K. J. Weld and R.R. Dmochowski, “Effect of bladder management on urological complications in spinal cord injured patients,” Journal of Urology, vol. 163, no.3, pp.768-772, 2000.
- Vaabengaard R, Zeeberg R, Zupet N, Bagger M, Nalbandian MT. Dependence on urinary intermittent catheterisation elicits considerable worry about urinary tract infections. INUS; Athens, Greece 2023.
- Kennelly M, Thiruchelvam N, Averbeck MA et al., Adult neurogenic lower urinary tract dysfunction and intermittent catheterisation in a community setting: Risk factors model for urinary tract infections. Advances in Urology. 2019; Apr 2;1–13