FREQUENCY OF URINARY TRACT INFECTION IN PATIENTS WITH LONG STANDING INDWELLING FOLEY CATHETERS

Abstract

Background:
Catheter-associated urinary tract infection (CA-UTI) remains one of the most prevalent hospital-acquired infections, particularly in patients with long-term indwelling urinary catheters. The risk of infection increases significantly when catheters remain in situ for more than 30 days.

Objective:
To determine the frequency of urinary tract infection in patients with indwelling Foley catheters for more than 30 days .

Methodology:
This cross-sectional study was carried out in the Department of Urology at Lady Reading Hospital, Peshawar, over six months from 12 December 2024  to 12 June 2025. A total of 100 patients aged 15–70 years, with supra-pubic or urethral Foley catheters in place for >30 days, were enrolled. Patients with diabetes, immunosuppression, or recent antibiotic use were excluded. Under aseptic conditions, catheter tips were collected and sent for culture and sensitivity. Data were analyzed using SPSS v22.

Results:
Among 100 patients, the frequency of catheter-associated urinary tract infection was found to be 23%. The majority of infections were caused by Gram-negative organisms. The incidence was higher in elderly patients and in those with prolonged catheterization, although stratification by gender and age did not reveal statistically significant associations (p > 0.05).

Conclusion:
CA-UTI is a significant complication in patients with long-standing indwelling Foley catheters. The infection rate of 23% observed in this study is consistent with recent local and international findings.