Written and maintained by CASRAI Editorial Board
Last updated
This page describes products and general use; it is not medical advice.
Short answer: a catheter strap is a securement device: it holds an indwelling urinary (Foley) catheter in place on the body so the catheter does not move or pull on the urethra. Securing the catheter is a recommendation in the CDC/HICPAC catheter-associated urinary tract infection (CAUTI) guideline. Who uses it: clinicians and care staff who manage patients with indwelling catheters, and the buyers who stock securement products.
What a catheter strap is
Product names overlap. Catheter strap, foley anchor, catheter clip and catheter leg holder are names used for devices whose job is to secure the catheter itself to the body. A leg bag strap has a different job: it holds the drainage bag against the leg. The bag is covered in what a urinary drainage bag is; the catheter is covered in what a Foley catheter is.
Why indwelling catheters are secured
The CDC/HICPAC Guideline for Prevention of Catheter-Associated Urinary Tract Infections (Gould et al., 2009; CDC PDF last updated June 6, 2019) states: “Properly secure indwelling catheters after insertion to prevent movement and urethral traction.” It is a Category IB recommendation. The same guideline recommends keeping the catheter and collecting tube free from kinking (Category IB) and keeping the collecting bag below the level of the bladder and off the floor (Category IB). A securement device supports these practices because it controls where the catheter and tubing sit. The guideline does not name a preferred type, such as strap versus adhesive anchor, so this page does not claim one is preferred. See also the CAUTI prevention bundle.
How securement devices are built
One manufacturer example, from BD’s StatLock Foley stabilization device page: the device is designed for Foley catheter securement, uses a push-to-close retainer, and has a swivel design so the catheter can move with the patient. It includes a skin prep pad and an anchor pad on tricot fabric, and is made without natural rubber latex. This is BD’s description of one product, not a recommendation of it. Intravenous and PICC securement is a separate topic, covered in StatLock.
Types and variants
| Type | Typical use | Key difference | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| Adhesive Foley stabilization device, pediatric (latex or silicone catheter versions) | Foley catheter securement in pediatric patients | Adhesive anchor pad with push-to-close retainer | BD product page |
| Adhesive Foley stabilization device, adult (3-way; latex plus silicone; foam-pad latex; foam-pad silicone) | Foley catheter securement in adults | Variants differ by catheter material and pad type (foam or tricot) | BD product page |
Specifications that matter
For the BD device, the manufacturer lists compatibility with latex catheters of 8 to 22 Fr and silicone catheters of 8 to 24 Fr. Compatibility is specific to each device, so the securement device and the catheter in use have to be matched against the manufacturer’s instructions. The CDC guideline separately advises, unless otherwise clinically indicated, considering the smallest bore catheter possible, consistent with good drainage, to minimize bladder neck and urethral trauma (Category II).
How to choose
Only criteria stated by the manufacturer are listed here (BD instructions, one brand):
- Catheter type and size: match the device to the catheter material and Fr size it is rated for.
- Skin condition: BD states not to use the device where it could lose adherence, such as with a confused patient, an unattended access device, or diaphoretic or nonadherent skin.
- Allergy: known tape or adhesive allergies are a contraindication.
- Duration: the adhesive components are meant for use up to 7 continuous days.
Adhesive and tape materials are discussed in what medical tape is. Supplies in this category can be browsed under catheters, urology and incontinence.
Safe use and handling basics
- BD states the device should be monitored daily and replaced when clinically indicated, at least every 7 days.
- BD advises minimizing catheter manipulation during application and removal.
- Keep the catheter and tubing free of kinks, and keep the bag below bladder level and off the floor (CDC/HICPAC, Category IB).
- Follow the instructions for use for the specific product and the facility’s policy; this page gives no procedure steps.
Common mistakes
- Leaving an adhesive device beyond the replacement interval the manufacturer states.
- Using an adhesive device where the manufacturer lists a contraindication, such as an adhesive allergy or skin that will not hold the adhesive.
- Letting tubing kink or the bag rest on the floor, which the CDC guideline warns against.
- Treating a leg bag strap as if it secured the catheter; it holds the bag.
FAQ
Is a catheter strap the same as a leg bag strap?
Not by function. A catheter strap or foley anchor secures the catheter to the body to limit movement and urethral traction; a leg bag strap holds the drainage bag on the leg.
How long can an adhesive anchor stay on?
For the BD StatLock Foley device, the adhesive components are meant for up to 7 continuous days, with daily monitoring and replacement when clinically indicated, at least every 7 days. Other products have their own instructions.
Does the CDC require a particular securement type?
No. The guideline recommends properly securing indwelling catheters (Category IB) and does not name a device type.
Sources
- CDC/HICPAC, Guideline for Prevention of Catheter-Associated Urinary Tract Infections 2009 (Gould et al.), checked 2026-10-30.
- BD, StatLock Foley stabilization device, manufacturer product page, checked 2026-10-30.
