From the Guidelines
A suprapubic catheter site infection is typically characterized by signs of exit-site infection, including erythema, induration, and/or tenderness within 2 cm of the catheter exit site, which may be associated with other signs and symptoms of infection, such as fever or pus emerging from the exit site, with or without concomitant bloodstream infection. The diagnosis of a suprapubic catheter site infection is based on clinical and microbiological criteria, as defined in the guidelines for the management of intravascular catheter-related infections 1. According to these guidelines, an exit-site infection is defined as the presence of erythema, induration, and/or tenderness within 2 cm of the catheter exit site, which may be associated with other signs and symptoms of infection.
The signs of suprapubic catheter site infection can be summarized as follows:
- Erythema (redness) around the catheter site
- Induration (hardening) of the skin around the catheter site
- Tenderness or pain around the catheter site
- Pus or discharge emerging from the catheter site
- Fever or other systemic symptoms of infection
It is essential to note that the management of suprapubic catheter site infections should prioritize the prevention of morbidity, mortality, and improvement of quality of life. The guidelines for the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of catheter-associated urinary tract infection in adults provide valuable insights into the management of suprapubic catheter site infections 1.
In terms of management, prompt treatment with appropriate antibiotics and local wound care is crucial to prevent complications and improve outcomes. The choice of antibiotics and the duration of treatment depend on the severity of the infection and the presence of any underlying medical conditions. Cleaning the catheter site daily with sterile saline or mild antiseptic solution and applying a sterile dressing afterward can help prevent infection. If symptoms worsen despite treatment or if the patient develops fever, increasing pain, or spreading redness, they should seek immediate medical attention as this could indicate a deeper or systemic infection requiring more aggressive intervention.
From the Research
Signs of Suprapubic Catheter Site Infection
- The provided studies do not directly address the signs of suprapubic catheter site infection. However, some studies mention symptoms related to urinary tract infections, which may be relevant in the context of catheter site infections.
- According to 2, symptoms of urinary tract infection (UTI) in neonates and infants include fever, while classic urinary tract symptoms become more important in older children.
- The study 3 mentions symptoms of complicated urinary tract infections, including urinary urgency, hematuria, dysuria, suprapubic discomfort, and increased frequency, which may be related to catheter site infections.
- There is no direct evidence in the provided studies to specifically identify the signs of suprapubic catheter site infection.
Related Infections and Symptoms
- The study 4 discusses the treatment of Acinetobacter infections, which can cause a range of infections, including urinary tract infections, and may be relevant in the context of catheter site infections.
- The study 5 examines the treatment of peritoneal dialysis-related peritonitis, which may involve catheter-related infections, but does not specifically address suprapubic catheter site infections.
- The study 6 reviews antibiotic-lock therapy for catheter-related bloodstream infection, which may be relevant in the context of catheter site infections, but does not specifically address suprapubic catheter site infections.