Which practice reduces catheter-associated urinary tract infection risk?

• A. Remove catheter immediately when patient reports discomfort
• B. Empty the collection bag every 8 hours
• C. Keep collection bag above bladder
• D. Open the drainage system to check patency

Answer: (B)

Regularly emptying the collection bag helps prevent it from overfilling, which in turn reduces backflow and leakage that can carry bacteria toward the bladder. Keeping the drainage pathway closed and the bag below the level of the bladder minimizes contamination and maintains proper drainage, both of which are key to lowering catheter-associated infection risk. Opening the drainage system or disrupting the catheter with premature removal can create opportunities for bacteria to enter, so those practices increase risk rather than reduce it.