Catheter care at home (female)

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What is a urethral catheter

A urethral catheter is used to drain urine from the bladder. A catheter is inserted via the urethra into the bladder. The catheter is held in place by a small balloon on the inside. It is often used to allow urine to be emptied from the bladder if this is a problem or after
operations to urinary system as it allows it to rest while it is healing. Generally, the catheter will be inserted on TMBU or during an operation if that is needed.

Equipment

The drainage system consists of the catheter (thin, plastic tube) and a collection bag. You will also need some tape and new collection bags. We will supply you with everything you need before you go home.

Instructions

• The catheter will remain in place until the Surgeons advise it can be removed.
• Your baby can play with adult supervision, but no strenuous activity or boisterous play, which may cause damage to the catheter or the operation site.
• Make sure the catheter bag is secure to prevent pulling out the catheter.
• Keep the collection bag below waist level but off the floor.
• Keep the catheter as straight as possible – if it kinks, this will stop the urine flowing properly into the collecting bag.
• Ensure your baby feeds well – this will keep the urine flowing, reduce any discomfort and reduce the risk of an infection developing.
• Cleaning around catheter – open labial folds and allow warm water soak over genital area, gently wash any debris away and dry.

Emptying the collection bag

You will need to empty the collection bag at least four times a day:

• Wash your hands
• Remove the end cap and open the valve at the bottom of the bag
• Empty the bag into a bowl
• Close the valve and replace end cap

Changing the collection bag

You should do this daily, or if the bag becomes disconnected.

You will need: A new collecting bag

• Wash your hands
• Bend the catheter over to stop urine leaking
• Remove the bag from the catheter.
• Attach a new collecting bag
• Straighten the catheter.

You should call the ward if:

• Your baby’s urine becomes infected. Signs of infection include darker than usual, smelly or cloudy urine.
• Urine is not draining into the bag.
• Urine is leaking into your baby’s nappy rather than the collection bag.
• The catheter falls out.