Certain medical conditions make it hard for a person to urinate. It can make everyday life difficult and work a lot more challenging. Many people can’t live their lives to the fullest because of this hindrance. Fortunately, urinary catheters are the best solution that physicians have used for over 3,000 years. It works perfectly, and it empties the bladder more effectively. And in today’s world, these devices have been simplified and refined to make this device more comfortable. But the most critical factor is urinary catheter care. Let’s learn more about how to properly care for your catheter here.
Cleaning the Catheter & Showering
Taking care of your catheter means hard work. And there’s a step-by-step procedure that you need to follow to care for it properly. You’ll need to clean the catheter itself, change your drainage bags, wash your drainage bags every day, and drink one to two glasses of liquids every two hours that you’re awake. There are times when you see blood or urine around your catheter, but it only happens when you’re moving around or pooping. It’s normal as long as there’s urine draining into your drainage bag. If not, make sure to call your healthcare provider.
Remember to take off your catheter while you take a bath. That’s because taking a bath while you have your catheter on might put you at risk for infections. However, you can take a shower with your catheter in place. Just make sure to shower with your night bag and not your leg bag.
The Process
While in the shower, you can start cleaning your catheter. First, get a mild soap, water, and one multi-purpose tube holder. Next, wash your hands with mild soap. After that, make sure to clean your genital area and urinary opening. Then clean the catheter from where it enters your body and then down, away from your body. Don’t forget to rinse the area well and use the new multi-purpose tube holder if you removed the old one.
Your drainage bags need to be changed twice a day, in the morning before you shower and at night before going to bed. You’ll need a washcloth, a night or leg drainage bag, and two alcohol pads. First, wash your hands or use alcohol. Then empty the urine from the drainage bags into the toilet. Make sure to place the clean cloth or gauze under the connector to prevent leakage. Pinch the catheter and disconnect the bag. After that, clean the catheter with an alcohol pad and wipe the connector to the new bag with a second pad. Finally, connect the clean bag to the catheter and check all connections while straightening any twists in the tubing.
