When caring for a resident with an indwelling urinary catheter, what is a primary focus of the care plan?

The primary focus of the care plan for a resident with an indwelling urinary catheter is to keep the insertion area clean. This is crucial because maintaining cleanliness helps prevent infections, which are one of the most common complications associated with urinary catheters. Proper hygiene practices, including regular cleaning of the catheter insertion site and ensuring the area around the catheter remains free from moisture and contaminants, significantly reduce the risk of developing a urinary tract infection (UTI).

In addition to good personal hygiene, caregivers should also ensure that the catheter and drainage system are functioning correctly, but the cleanliness of the insertion site is fundamental to preventing infection. Other factors, such as proper fluid intake and regular monitoring of the drainage bag, are important, but the direct maintenance of the insertion site takes precedence in the care of residents with indwelling catheters.