a. General.

Catheter care is to be performed twice daily on all patients with indwelling catheters unless otherwise ordered by the doctor. Daily catheter care should include cleansing of the metal catheter junction with soap and water and the application of water-soluble microbicidal ointment (Betadine®, unless other ointment or cream is ordered by the physician.) The urinary catheter should be inserted only by adequately trained personnel using sterile technique.

b. Important Points.

(1) Never use inverted drainage bags.

(2) Never elevate the bag above the level of the patient’s bladder.

(3) Always use a sterile, closed-drainage system with disposable, clear plastic bag and connecting tubes.

(4) Do not break the sterile continuity when removing the urine.

c. Procedure.

(1) Check the physician’s orders.

(2) Introduce yourself and explain the procedure.

(3) Provide privacy.

(4) Obtain supplies:

(a) Betadine® (or ointment of physician’s choice).

(b) Soft washcloth.

(c) Soap and water.

(d) Sterile, cotton-tipped applicator and gloves.

(5) Wash your hands and don gloves.

(6) Position the patient for comfort.

(7) Cleanse around urethral meatus and adjacent catheter. Cleanse entire catheter with soap and water.

(8) Repeat cleansing to remove all exudate from meatus and catheter.

(9) Open package of sterile cotton-tipped applicators. Do not touch cotton tip. Apply Betadine® ointment to applicator. Do not touch wrapper to cotton tip.

(10) Apply ointment to junction of catheter and urethral meatus.

(11) Remove your gloves. Clean and store equipment. Dispose of contaminated supplies in proper receptacle.

(12) Wash your hands.

(13) Position the patient for comfort.