Clinical Evaluation of Closed Urinary Drainage Systems

Eight urinary drainage systems were studied in a general hospital for efficacy in preventing contamination of bladder urine and nursing acceptance. Problems encountered with delayed flow, urinary retention, maintenance of proper position, breakage, loss of parts, and poor nursing acceptance proved to be of paramount importance. Many mechanical devices are being placed on the market prior to careful clinical evaluation. Field testing by the manufacturers of most of the systems studied here has led to extensive improvements. Thus, these findings do not necessarily apply to the new models. It is urged that claims made for them be reviewed by independent bodies and that these findings, as well as relative cost, be made known to potential users. Competition among suppliers, stimulated by high standards of hospitals, should lead to development of improved drainage systems.