Manual of Policies and Procedures for Wade Nursing Registry

Care of the Client with an Indwelling Catheter

Material needed:

• Material for perineal care
• Cotton balls or gauze
• Disposable gloves
• Waterproof protector pad
• Plastic or paper bag

Procedure:

1. Explain what you are going to do
2. Wash your hands
3. Obtain material listed above
4. Provide privacy (close door, pull curtains)
5. Put on gloves
6. Perform perineal care ( see Perineal Care )
7. Female client: separate labia to visualize the urinary meatus. Male client: retract foreskin if uncircumcised
8. Moisten cotton balls and gauze with soap and water
9. Wash catheter tube in a downward motion away from urinary meatus for approximately 4 inches. Use one cotton ball or gauze pad for each stroke. Rinse with water in the same manner. Discard used cotton balls or gauze into bag.
10. Tape and position catheter properly
11. Remove waterproof protector pad. Replace top linens
12. Make sure client is safe and comfortable
13. Clean material and store in proper location
14. Remove and discard gloves
15. Wash your hands
16. Record what you have done. Report any unusual conditions