Are there systematic reviews of the evidence about the effect of chlorhexidine on rate of catheter associated urinary tract infections?

Joanna Briggs Institute’s JBI+COnNECT, an evidence summary source, has published this evidence summary:  Urethral Catheter (Indwelling Short-Term):  Urinary Tract Infection Prevention

The Clinical Bottom Line section summarizes evidence on various care regimens, including daily cleaning.  Two relevant statements:
“Daily cleansing of the urethral meatus using soap and water or perineal cleanser has been shown to be effective to reduce CAUTI.3 (Level II)”
“The following interventions are not deemed effective for reducing CAUTI incidence: sterile technique for catheter insertion, use of antiseptic solutions or ointment during routine meatal care, 2-chambered urinary drainage bags, antiseptic filters incorporated into the drainage bag, bladder or catheter irrigation, frequent urinary drainage bag changes and placing an antiseptic solution into the urinary drainage bag.3 (Level I)”

References to other systematic reviews are available through this PubMed search: chlorhexidine AND urinary tract infection AND catheter AND (systematic review OR meta-analysis)

Leave a comment