Is routine irrigation of indwelling catheters recommended?

Routine irrigation of indwelling catheters is not recommended because it can increase the risk of infection and may introduce bacteria into the urinary tract. Additionally, the need for irrigation should be assessed on a case-by-case basis rather than performed routinely. This practice can also lead to discomfort for the patient and may cause trauma to the bladder or urethra. Instead of routine irrigation, focusing on maintaining catheter patency through proper care and monitoring is often advocated. Thus, avoiding unnecessary interventions helps minimize complications and promotes patient safety.