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HomeKnowledge CenterWellness Library Care for an Indwelling Urinary Catheter OverviewA urinary catheter is a flexible plastic tube that's used to drain urine from the bladder when a person can't urinate. The catheter is placed into the bladder by inserting it through the urethra. The urethra is the opening that carries urine from the bladder to the outside of the body. When the catheter is in the bladder, a small balloon is used to keep the catheter in place. The catheter lets urine drain from the bladder into a collection bag. Urinary catheters can be used in both men and women. A catheter that stays in place for a longer period of time is called an indwelling catheter. A catheter may be needed because of certain medical conditions. These include an enlarged prostate or problems controlling urine. It may be used after surgery on the pelvis or urinary tract. Urinary catheters are also used when the lower part of the body is paralyzed. When helping a loved one with a catheter, try to be relaxed. Caring for a catheter can be embarrassing for both of you. If you are calm and don't seem embarrassed, the person may feel more comfortable. Catheter careWear disposable gloves when handling someone's catheter. Make sure to follow all of the instructions the doctor has given. And always wash your hands before and after you're done. Here are some other things to remember when caring for someone's catheter:
Emptying the catheter bagThe urine collection bag needs to be emptied regularly. It's best to empty the bag when it's about half full or at bedtime. If the doctor has asked you to measure the amount of urine, do that before you empty the urine into the toilet. When you are ready to empty the bag, follow these steps:
After the catheter is removedAfter your indwelling urinary catheter is removed, there are things you can do to take care of yourself.
Be sure to contact your doctor if you notice any problems or if you are unable to urinate at all. When to call for helpCall your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:
Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:
This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content. To learn more about Healthwise, visit Healthwise.org. © 1995-2022 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated. Related LinksStrokeBenign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)Living With a Spinal Cord InjuryUrinary Incontinence in MenUrinary Incontinence in Women <cipublic-spinner variant="large"><span>Loading…</span></cipublic-spinner>When emptying a urinary catheter bag what PPE should be worn?Staff should always wear appropriate PPE, e.g. disposable apron and gloves when emptying a catheter bag. Before putting on PPE, staff should wash hands thoroughly and dry using paper towels.
What type of gloves should be used during urinary catheterization?To minimise risk of infection insertion of IDC's must be performed using surgical aseptic technique with single use sterile gloves.
When emptying a urinary drainage bag you should?Follow these steps:. Wash your hands well with soap and water.. Disconnect the bag from the catheter tubing. ... . Drain any remaining urine from the bag you just disconnected. ... . Pour some warm (not hot) soapy water into the bag. ... . Open the drainage valve to drain the soap.. What documentation is required after emptying urinary drainage bag?After emptying a catheter drainage bag, the nurse must document the amount and type of urine on the fluid balance chart and/or in the progress notes as per organisational guidelines.
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