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Delirium after catheter — DGM MCQ

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ModerateDeliriumDelirium after catheterDGM

An 87-year-old man has delirium after admission for heart failure. A urinary catheter was inserted for convenience and he is now pulling at it. There is no retention and urine output is stable. Current medicines include furosemide and ramipril. What is the most appropriate management?

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Correct answer: E — Remove the catheter if clinically safe

Unnecessary urinary catheters increase discomfort, infection risk and delirium distress, so removal is appropriate when safe. Keeping it for convenience, antipsychotics, fluid restriction and mittens do not address the trigger and may cause harm. Device removal is a practical delirium intervention.

Reference: NICE CG103; NICE infection prevention guidance