Urinary Catheterization Detailed Notes

Definition: Insertion of a hollow tube (catheter) through the urethra into the bladder to facilitate urine removal.
Purpose: Allows drainage when normal urine flow is obstructed or measurement of urine output is necessary.
Procedure Type: Aseptic procedure requiring sterile equipment.

Acute or Chronic Urinary Retention: Inability to empty bladder naturally.
- Causes: Obstruction (e.g., stones), neurological conditions, weakened bladder muscles.
Monitoring Urine Output: Essential in critical care or major surgeries.
Collecting Sterile Urine Samples: For diagnostic tests requiring uncontaminated specimens.
Perioperative Use: During and after surgeries involving urinary tract; when bladder control may be compromised.
Management of Severe Incontinence: Used when other treatments fail, especially in patients with mobility issues.
Facilitation of Healing: Helps keep pressure ulcers and wounds dry.
Bladder Irrigation: To clear blood clots or debris, particularly post-operatively.

Carcinoma of the Bladder: Catheter insertion may traumatize or exacerbate bleeding.
Anticoagulation/Antiplatelet Treatment: Increased bleeding risk during catheter insertion.
Acute Prostatitis: Further complications may arise from catheterization.
Recent Urethral Surgery: Risk of disrupting surgical sites or worsening strictures.
Severe Urethral Stricture Disease: Difficulty in catheter insertion may lead to trauma.

Single-Lumen (Straight) Catheters: For short-term use (urine sample, surgery).
Double-Lumen (Indwelling) Catheters: One lumen for drainage, one for balloon inflation.
Triple-Lumen Catheters: For continuous bladder irrigation and medication instillation.

Sterile Catheters: Sizes for males (12-16 French) and females (10-14 French).
Sterile Gloves: Crucial for maintaining asterile technique.
Antiseptic Solution: For cleaning periurethral area.
Sterile Lubricant: Water-based.
10 mL Syringes with Sterile Water: For inflating catheters.
Urine Drainage Bag and Adhesive Securement Device: To ensure proper drainage and stability.
Specimen Container: For urine culture tests.

Explain Procedure: To reduce anxiety and ensure cooperation.
Position the Client: Supine position with knees bent (female) or legs extended (male).
Hand Hygiene: Perform and don sterile gloves.
Gather Supplies: Ensure all necessary supplies are ready.
Drape the Client: Maintain privacy and sterility during the procedure.
Cleanse the Urinary Meatus: Clean according to gender-specific techniques.
Lubricate the Catheter: Adjustable lengths based on gender.
Insert Catheter: Use correct depth depending on gender, monitor for urine flow.
Secure Catheter: Inflate the balloon and attach to drainage system, securing it in place.
Monitor Client Comfort: Adjust if discomfort is reported, ensure correct placement.

Explain Removal Process: To reduce anxiety.
Perform Hand Hygiene and Wear Clean Gloves: Prevent infection.
Position Client Comfortably: Supine with waterproof pad underneath.
Deflate Balloon: Use a syringe on the balloon port.
Withdraw Catheter Carefully: Encourage deep breaths to minimize discomfort.
Inspect Catheter: Check for damages or residual fluid.
Dispose of Catheter Properly: To maintain cleanliness.
Document Procedure: Record any observations or complications.
Monitor for Complications: Check for urinary output and signs of discomfort.

Return Client to Comfort: Help them adjust post-procedure.
Document Observations: Note characteristics of urine and client’s response.
Monitor for Discomfort: Look for signs of infection or irritation during first voids after catheter removal.