A recent study published in JAMA Internal Medicine reveals that more than half of urethral cauterized patients surveyed reported that they experienced complications. Among the problems many experience related to urethral catheters include urinary tract infections (UTI), fistulas, hematuria and bladder stones to more serious complications of septicemia, urethral injury and kidney damage. Some patients report lingering sexual dysfunction and problems urinating after catheter removal. Older patients, including those in nursing homes, present with a greater risk of death and longer hospital stays following catheterization.
Among the many cases involving urethra catheters (UC) resulting in injury include: failure to timely remove a UC resulting in the development of an UTI; failure to diagnose and treat infection; punctured bladder with insertion of UC; premature removal of UC resulting in fistula; failure to perform proper UC care and maintenance resulting in sepsis and death; traumatic insertion resulting in the perforation of the urethra; failure to remove piece of inserted UC resulting in infection; traumatic removal of UC resulting in injury. Urologists, nurses, hospitals and nursing homes were named in the majority of cases involving UC injuries, with defendants prevailing in cases where injuries occur due to improper techniques or procedures, lack of consent, and mechanical failures.
The potential for problems underscores the importance placing urinary catheters, particularly indwelling or Foley catheters, only when absolutely necessary; minimizing unnecessary and prolonged use of UCs can prevent catheter injuries. However, the reality is that urethral catheters are one of the most commonly used medical devices.
Marc A. Humphrey, one of the most experienced Iowa medical negligence attorneys, will take difficult and complicated medical negligence and urethra catheter error cases. When patients are needlessly injured due to the negligence of a healthcare provider or medical facility, compensation for medical bills, lost wages and other damages including pain and suffering or loss of consortium may be payable. We can help you, call 515-331-3510 for a free and confidential consultation – or use our contact us form.
