Urinary catheterization is the insertion of a sterile catheter with a balloon at the tip through the urethral opening into the bladder. Then, sterile water is injected through the tube to inflate the balloon, preventing the catheter from slipping out and allowing urine to flow out.

Reasons for Urinary Catheterization

To facilitate urine drainage in patients who have difficulty controlling urination
To assess kidney function in patients undergoing major surgery or in shock
To prevent contamination or infection in unconscious patients or those with large wounds in the genital area or around the anus

Care for patients with an indwelling urinary catheter must be appropriate and correct. Cleaning should be done at least twice a day, morning and evening, to reduce the risk of urinary tract infections.

Procedure

Ensure the catheter and urine bag remain in a closed system at all times
The urine bag should be kept below waist level; if it needs to be raised, fold the tube first
Encourage the patient to move frequently; if movement is limited, have them lie on their side. Be careful to avoid kinking or bending the catheter, which may occur from lying on it
Recommend drinking 2,500-3,000 cc of water daily (if there are no restrictions on fluid intake)
Unconscious patients may need to be restrained to prevent pulling out the catheter, and the restraint site should be monitored for any wounds
Observe the color and odor of urine. If sediment adheres to the catheter or urine bag, replace them at the hospital
If urine is cloudy or the patient has a fever, see a doctor
The catheter should be changed every 2 weeks to 1 month at a nearby hospital. The urine bag should be changed when it becomes dirty
Clean by washing with soap, pulling back the foreskin to clean thoroughly at least twice a day. Be careful not to pull on the catheter and always pull the foreskin forward after cleaning

Abnormal Symptoms to Watch For

Odor may indicate bacterial or other infections
Swelling, redness, and pus discharge at the urethral opening may indicate poor hygiene or infection
Fever may indicate a urinary tract infection. Urine leakage may indicate catheter malfunction