Bladder irrigation of long-term indwelling urinary catheters aims to prevent obstruction and encrustation but its effectiveness is unclear from existing research evidence. While nurses continue using irrigation to manage catheter complications, the scientific evidence supporting its ability to decrease obstruction and encrustation is inconsistent and low quality. Further high-quality research is needed to determine the appropriate frequency, duration, volume and success of bladder irrigation in preventing long-term indwelling catheter issues.