In Foley catheter care, which practice is essential to minimize infection risk?

• A. Maintain a closed system
• B. Periodically open the system during care
• C. Rinse the catheter with hot water
• D. Disconnect the catheter from the drainage bag during routine care

Answer: (A)

Maintaining a closed drainage system is essential because it preserves a sterile, sealed path from the bladder to the collection bag, which minimizes exposure to bacteria that can cause a catheter-associated infection. When the system is opened or disconnected, bacteria from the surrounding environment can enter and ascend into the bladder, increasing infection risk. Rinsing the catheter with hot water isn’t a sterile cleaning method and can introduce contaminants or cause burns, and opening or disconnecting the system during routine care similarly breaks the protective seal. The safest practice is to keep the Foley catheter system closed throughout care and only access it with proper aseptic technique when necessary.