Question

What precautions must be taken when a patient has a urinary catheter in place? What could happen if proper precautions are not taken

Answer 1

Urinary catheterisation is the insertion of urinary catheter, a tube made of latex, silicone or polyurethane into the urinary bladder through the urethra. It is done for patients who cannot pass urine normally and also for surgical purposes.

There are certain precautions to be taken not only while inserting the catheter but also when the catheter is in place. This will prevent infections and complications. The following are the precautions to be taken when the patient has urinary catheter.

• The drainage bag should be kept below the level of the bladder which prevents the back flow and promotes the flow of urine.
• patient should not block the flow of urine by lying over the tubing.
• The catheter should be secured to the patient’s thigh using a tape so that catheter will be in proper place and it will not move.
• Hand washing to be done before and after touching the catheter or the bag.
• patient should drink 1-2 glasses of water at least every 2 hours (if no fluid restrictions) when he is awake.
• Keep the catheter clean to prevent infection.

Person with urinary catheter should seek medical attention if

• the temperature is 101 degree F or higher.
• the urine is foul smelling .
• the catheter comes out
• urine is less than usual
• urine is bright red in colour or when there is large blood clots in urine
• abdominal pain with very less or no urine in urinary bag.

If certain precautions are not taken it will lead to severe urinary infections which leads to severe complications. Infections may damage the kidney if not treated at proper time. Sterile techniques should be practiced during insertion, cleaning and also during removal. There is more chance of getting drug resistant infections. Sterile techniques prevent the infections.