Have you had difficulty urinating after surgery or for some other health reason and had to have a urinary catheter inserted? Although it may seem a bit strange and annoying at first, once you know how to properly care for it, it's not such a big deal. This is because a catheter is a device that helps you drain urine from your body properly when you are unable to urinate on your own. Today, we'll talk about how to use your catheter correctly and without getting infected.
What is this catheter?
Simply put, it's a thin tube that's used to remove urine from your body. There are several types that are most commonly used.
- Foley catheter: This is the most commonly used. This thin tube is inserted into your urethra and into your bladder . To keep it in place, the inner end of the tube has a small balloon-like part filled with water. The outer end of the tube is connected to a drainage bag that collects your urine.
- Suprapubic catheter: Sometimes, if your urethra is damaged, your doctor will perform a small operation, make a small incision in your lower abdomen, and insert this type of catheter.
The most important thing is that since this catheter is something that goes from the outside world into your body, it is imperative to keep it clean at all times . Otherwise, germs can get inside and cause serious infections.
How do you clean the catheter?
It is best to clean the catheter at least twice a day (morning and evening). The table below shows what you will need and how to do it.
| Things needed | How to do it (step by step) |
|---|---|
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While cleaning, look carefully at the catheter insertion site for any swelling, redness, pus , or pain . If you notice any of these symptoms, call your doctor immediately.
How do you change urine bags?
Usually, you have to use a small leg bag during the day and a larger night bag when you sleep. This is how to switch between these bags.
| Things needed | How to do it |
|---|---|
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How do you clean used urine bags?
Before using a disassembled bag again, it must be cleaned.
| Things needed | How to do it |
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Some general things to remember to be careful
- Avoid bathing in buckets of water. Instead, take a shower every day. Use a waterproof bandage when bathing for the first few days after a suprapubic catheter is inserted. Once the wound has healed, you can bathe normally, but avoid using scented soaps.
- Always check to see if the catheter tube is kinked or stuck anywhere, obstructing the flow of urine.
- Do not apply any lotion or powder around the area where the catheter enters the body.
- Empty the leg bag twice a day or when it is half full .
- Keep the urine flowing well, and always keep the urine bag below your bladder .
- Be sure to wash your hands before and after handling the urine bag.
In this case, call your doctor immediately!
If your catheter comes out on its own, do not try to put it back in yourself. This can be very dangerous. Call your doctor immediately or go to the nearest hospital emergency room (ETU).
In addition, if you have any of the following symptoms, be sure to inform your doctor.
| Warning signs to look out for | |
|---|---|
| Blood clots or dark red blood in the urine | Dark urine and a strong odor |
| Fever (greater than 101°F) | Very reduced or complete cessation of urination |
| Abdominal pain | Swelling, redness, pus, pain, or inflammation where the catheter was inserted |
Take-Home Message
- Clean the catheter and the site where it enters the body at least twice a day.
- Always wash your hands with soap before and after touching the catheter or urine bag.
- Always keep the urine bag below your bladder to allow urine to flow properly.
- Tell your doctor right away if you have signs of infection, such as swelling, redness, pain, or fever.
- If the catheter comes out on its own, never try to reinsert it yourself. Seek medical advice immediately.
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