Urinary catheterization is a procedure where a thin, flexible tube (catheter) is inserted into the bladder via the urethra (or sometimes surgically) to drain urine, used for urinary retention, incontinence, surgery recovery, or monitoring, with common types including intermittent (temporary) or indwelling (longer-term) catheters like the Foley.
Role of a Nurses in Catheter Care at Home
- Aseptic technique: Nurses prioritize hand hygiene and wear sterile gloves to minimize infection risk.
- Insertion prep: The area is sterilized with antiseptics like chlorhexidine.
- Catheter selection: Size depends on patient needs (14 French is common).
- Insertion: Lubricate, insert carefully, and check for urine flow.
- Securing: Prevent movement and trauma by securing the catheter.
- Drainage: Closed system, bag below bladder level.
- Ongoing care: Daily hygiene, monitor output, and troubleshoot issues (blockages, leaks).
What is the role of Nurse after Urinary catheterization?
Ensure stability of the patient: Post catheterization, the most crucial aspect is to ensure the stability of the patient initially .
What is important in catheter care?
Always wash your hands before and after handling your catheter. Wash the visible part of the catheter and the area where it enters your body with warm soapy water once daily during your shower. Men – you may notice a slight discharge around your catheter where it enters your penis.
What is catheter care in nursing?
In nursing, catheter care involves meticulous management of catheters (like Foley or suprapubic) and their exit sites to prevent complications, primarily urinary tract infections (UTIs), by ensuring cleanliness, proper drainage, securement, and patient education, focusing on daily peri-care (soap/water cleaning), gravity drainage (bag below bladder), kink prevention, hydration, and skin care.
What are the four types of catheterization?
The four main types of urinary catheters, categorized by use and placement, are Intermittent, Indwelling (Foley), Suprapubic, and External (Condom).
What are the risks of catheterization?
Catheter risks mainly involve infections (CAUTIs), bladder spasms, leakage, blockages, and urethral injury, with long-term use increasing dangers like bladder stones, kidney damage, or even cancer.
What are three indications for catheterization?
Perioperative use in selected surgeries. Acute urinary retention or obstruction. Hospice/comfort care/palliative care. Accurate measurement of urinary output in critically ill patients.