Performing Catheter Care

Cather care is performed to prevent the introduction of infectious microorganisms

into the urethra and bladder to cause bladder and kidney infections.

I. Preparation:
 Determine patient’s ability to understand and cooperate in the procedure.
 Assess for signs and symptoms of urinary infection.
 Determine an appropriate time for catheter care.

II. Special Considerations:

Catheter care is most beneficial if performed after defecation if patient is
incontinent.
1. Female Patient
 In females, note if patient is having menstrual period or vaginal discharge
and, because the urethra is close to the anus, thorough and careful cleaning of
the perineum is very important.
 For postpartum or post–gynecologic surgery, the perineum and labia may be
swollen and tender, therefore, handle gently to minimize discomfort.
2. Pediatric Patient
 Provide age-appropriate instructions to decrease anxiety and facilitate
cooperation.
 For infants and children, allow parents to participate by comforting patient.
 Home Health and Physically and/or Mentally Challenged Patients
 Patients and/or caregivers may need careful monitoring and additional
education about catheter care to prevent the occurrence of urinary tract
infection.
III. Equipments/Supplies needed:
 Wash cloth, soap, and towels
 Sterile catheter care kit or
 Sterile cotton balls or 2×2 gauze pads
 Antiseptic solution
 Clean gloves
 Plastic bag for garbage

IV. Implementation and Rationale

1. Identify patient; explain purpose, procedure, and how patient can assist.
Decreases anxiety; meets patient’s right to be informed; encourages cooperation and
participation.
2. Wash hands.
Reduces transmission of infectious microorganisms.
3. Provide privacy.
Encourage patient’s participation as appropriate.
4. Raise bed and lower side rail on working side.
Provides a comfortable working level.
5. Place patient in supine position, and expose perineal area.
To easily visualize urinary meatus.
6. Don clean gloves and wash the urinary meatus and the proximal catheter with
soap and water; rinse, and gently dry with towel.
Reduces transmission of infectious microorganisms.
7. After removing contaminated gloves and washing hands, open catheter care kit or
assemble equipment on over-bed table and remove tape if used to secure catheter to
patient’s upper thigh.
Reduces transmission of infectious microorganisms and organizes equipment within
easy reach while maintaining a clean working area.
8. Don clean gloves and cleanse the urinary meatus using a circular motion moving
from middle toward outside with antiseptic-soaked cotton ball or swab. Dispose of
cotton ball/swab in trash bag.
This motion prevents bacteria from entering the urinary meatus. Also, proper disposal
of contaminated materials prevents the transmission of infectious microorganisms.
9. Gently pull catheter taut and cleanse with a new cotton ball/swab from catheter
insertion site down catheter tubing about 4 to 5 inches toward drainage bag.
Dispose of used cotton ball/swab.
Cleans catheter and prevents bacterial growth.
10. Dispose of all cleaning materials in proper waste container.
Prevents transmission of infectious microorganisms.
11. Remove gloves and re-tape catheter (as per facility policy).
Prevents additional pull/strain on catheter by securing it to upper leg.
12. Position patient for comfort, lower bed, and raise side rail.
Provides comfort and safety measures.
13. Wash hands.
Prevents transmission of infectious microorganisms.
14. Documentation
Record the characteristics of urine and signs of urinary infection. Document date
and time catheter care was done and participation of patient and/or caregiver.
Facilitates communication and continuity of care.

V. Evaluation and follow-up activities

 Evaluate patient comfort
 Observe characteristics of urine and signs of urinary infection
 Check test results and inform physician of abnormal findings
 Discuss appropriate therapy with prescriber