Page 2 - Urethral Catheter Care

Urethral catheter care
Debris may accumulate where the catheter exits from
the urethral opening. This area and about 5 cm
(2 inches) of the catheter should be washed daily with
a clean washcloth, soap and water and then dried
with a clean towel.
You may shower with a catheter, but, soaking in water
(bathing, hot tubs, swimming…) should be avoided.
You should not have sexual intercourse while using an
in-dwelling urethral catheter. Avoid constipation. Use
a mild laxative or stool softener such a docusate
(e.g. Colace™), if necessary.
There may be a small amount of urine leakage
alongside the catheter, particularly at the time of
bowel movement. This occurs because the control
muscles may not make a watertight seal around the
catheter. If there is a lot of leakage, ensure that the
catheter is not blocked or kinked.
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You may be asked to record your urine output. When
you empty your drainage bag, record the time
and volume of urine in milliliters or ounces using a
measuring cup. Drink plenty of fluids (about 8 to 10
glasses daily), to produce about two liters of urine
daily unless advised otherwise. Limit consumption of
carbonated beverages, which may promote stone
formation.
Those requiring long-term catheter drainage should
have the catheter changed about once every
month. The catheter drainage bag(s) and tubing can
be kept clean by rinsing and washing in warm water
and dish soap at least weekly. Periodic soaking for 20
minutes in half-strength white vinegar or bleach will
limit growth of bacteria. After rinsing thoroughly with
water, the bag should be left to air dry with the outlet
valve open. The dry bag can be stored in a clean
plastic bag. Damaged or cracked tubing or drainage
bags should be replaced.
Problems
It is important to ensure that urine can flow freely
through your catheter. Catheter obstruction by debris,
blood or kinking will cause bladder discomfort, which
will not be relieved until the catheter is unplugged. If
frequent plugging with debris becomes a problem,
you may be instructed to have your catheter flushed
with water using a syringe.
While a catheter is in place it is not unusual to have
the urge to void. This is caused by mild irritation of
the bladder and urethra by the catheter. Bladder
spasms occur when the bladder contracts around
the catheter balloon. When bladder spasms are
frequent and bothersome they can be controlled with
medication prescribed by your doctor.
Irritation of the urethral opening can cause discomfort,
redness, swelling, raw areas or skin breakdown. This
can be prevented with daily cleaning and ensuring
that the catheter is not pulling on the opening.
The application of a small amount of antibacterial
ointment (e.g. Polysporin™) around the catheter
at the urethral opening may help keep this area
lubricated and clean.
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