This procedure involves the insertion of a latex, plastic or silicone catheter into the bladder via the urethral orifice. The contents of the bladder are collected in a drainage bag or urometer, allowing both specimen collection and measurement of urine output. This is an example of a closed passive drainage system.

The typical catheter size required is 14–16 French gauge (Fr).

Indications

1. ▪ Monitoring urine output

2. ▪ Relief of urinary retention

3. ▪ Incontinence

4. ▪ Empty bladder preoperatively

5. ▪ Bladder irrigation

6. ▪ Sterile specimen collection for microscopy, culture and sensitivity.

Contraindications

1. ▪ Trauma/suspected urethral injury (e.g. pelvic fracture)

2. ▪ Acute prostatitis.

Prepare your equipment trolley

1. ▪ Catheterization pack: kidney bowl, gauze swabs, sterile drapes, cleaning solution dish

2. ▪ Catheter: size 14 and 16 Fr, male or female length

3. ▪ Drainage bag or urometer

4. ▪ Specimen pot for MSU

5. ▪ Sterile saline in a 10 ml syringe (check capacity of balloon in catheter)

6. ▪ Normosol cleaning solution or equivalent

7. ▪ Instagel lidocaine gel or equivalent

8. ▪ Two pairs of sterile gloves

9. ▪ Disposable apron.

Procedure

Explain procedure to the patient. If catheterizing a female patient request supervision from a suitable chaperone. Before exposing the patient ensure privacy, good lighting and position the patient in a supine position. For a female patient request her knees to be fully flexed with legs abducted (a.k.a. ‘frog-leg’ position). Wear a disposable apron, roll up sleeves, wash hands thoroughly and maintain a sterile field throughout. Stand to the right of the patient.