Introduction

Proper catheter care will help prevent the spread of pathogens. Read through the steps below before watching the demonstration video.

Procedure Steps
Demonstration Video
Google Docs

Catheter Care

Gather Supplies: Basin, warm water, soap, two washcloths, one towel, barrier, gloves, and linen bag or hamper
Routine Pre-Procedure Steps:
- Knock on the resident’s door.
- Perform hand hygiene.
- Maintain respectful, courteous, and professional communication at all times.
- Introduce yourself and identify the resident.
- Provide for privacy.
- Explain the procedure to the resident.
Procedure Steps:
- Put on gloves.
- Fill the basin with warm water and place it on a flat surface with a barrier underneath. Have the resident check the water temperature by placing their hand in the basin or putting a wet washcloth on the back of their hand.
- Raise the bed height to a working height.
- Expose only the urethra and catheter.
- Follow the tubing from the resident toward the drainage bag, ensuring that the tubing is at a lower level as it goes toward the bag. Be sure no kinks or elevation can cause backflow to the bladder.
- Turn the resident or raise their hips and place a barrier (e.g., a towel, waterproof soaker pad, or disposable pad) under their buttocks.
- Use the first washcloth with soap and water to carefully wash around the catheter where it exits the urethra.
- Hold the catheter where it exits the urethra with one hand.
- While holding the catheter, clean 3-4 inches down the catheter tube.
- Clean with strokes moving away from the urethra.
- Use a clean portion of washcloth for each stroke.
- Put the soiled first washcloth in the linen bag.
- Wet the second washcloth and rinse, using strokes only away from the urethra while continuing to hold the catheter where it exits the urethra.
- Rinse using a clean portion of washcloth for each stroke.
- Put the soiled second washcloth in the linen bag.
- Pat dry with a towel.
- Do not allow the tube to be pulled at any time during the procedure.
- Replace the gown over the resident’s perineal area.
- While wearing gloves, empty the basin.
- Rinse the basin.
- Dry the basin.
- Return the equipment to storage.
- Dispose of soiled linen in a designated laundry hamper.
- Remove the gloves, turning them inside out.
Post-Procedure Steps:
- Perform hand hygiene.
- Check for resident comfort and ask if anything else is needed.
- Ensure the bed is low and locked. Check the brakes.
- Place the call light or signaling device within reach of the resident.
- Open the door and privacy curtain.
- Perform hand hygiene.
- Document and report any issues or changes noted with the resident.

> This information can be found in Section 5.24 of the book.

Please click on the link below to access the skills checklist. This checklist can be printed and cut out for an in-class activity.

Skills Checklist: Catheter Care

Licensing and Attribution