Intermittent urethral catheterisation: the reality of the lubricants and catheters in the clinical practice of a Brazilian service

Aims and objectives To identify how catheters and lubricants have been used among patients using intermittent urinary catheterisation in rehabilitation. Background The clean intermittent urinary catheterisation technique is an invasive procedure can cause discomfort, pain and urethral traumas. The use of lubricants and lubricated urinary catheters reduces the friction between the catheter and the urethral mucosa, minimising the risks. Design A descriptive exploratory design was used. Methods Quantitative and descriptive study developed at a rehabilitation centre of a University Hospital in the interior of the state of São Paulo, Brazil, at the Intermittent Urinary Catheterisation Outpatient Clinic, between June 2012–December 2014. After ethical approval, the data were collected through an interview with the support of a semistructured questionnaire, held during the nursing consultation. Among the users, patients using intermittent urinary catheterisation were interviewed, over 18 years of age and minors younger than eight years accompanied. Descriptive statistical analysis was applied. Results Most of 214 (100·0%) patients were interviewed were male, single, young adults and with a primary medical diagnosis of bone marrow injury and myelomeningocele. Most patients perform the urinary catheterisation between four and six times per day. For the procedure, the majority uses polyethylene (polyvinyl chloride) catheter and, as a lubricant, 2·0% lidocaine hydrochloride on the catheter itself. Many mention lack of sensitivity when passing the catheter. Conclusion In the study sample, a risk of urethral traumas was evidenced, related to the inappropriate use of catheters and lubricants. For the patients’ safety, the professionals need to acknowledge the importance of the appropriate use of lubricants and lubricated catheters to implement evidence‐based practices that mobilise public policies. Relevance to clinical practice The use of evidences demonstrates that the appropriate use of lubricants for intermittent urinary catheterisation is fundamental for patient safety and the performance of the best practices.