Catheter Guide: Understanding Types, Use & Care

Catheters are small tubes, generally made of plastic or rubber that are inserted into the bladder through the urethra in order to empty its contents. Catheters are lubricated with water-soluble lubrication and inserted manually around 8 to 10 inches into the body. Catheters are a discreet way of emptying the bladder for patients who may otherwise not be able to urinate on their own due to infection or paralysis. Catheters come in disposable and reusable style but must be sterile before use.

Things You'll Need

• Water-soluble lubricant
• Sterile catheter
• Clean towel
• Soap

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Instructions

• 1

  Clean the private area with soap and water and dry with a clean towel. Remove the catheter from the packaging or sterile cover. Apply a liberal amount of lubrication to the tube of the catheter.

• 2

  Apply a small amount of lubrication to the opening of the urethra. Slowly press the end of the tube to the opening of the urethra and press gently inside. Stop immediately if any pain or discomfort arises. Press the tube up the urethra 6 to 8 inches or until a small amount of urine starts to seep down the tube.

• 3

  Gently press the catheter another 2 inches into the urethra until a constant stream of urine starts to flow. Hold the catheter steady for one minute or until urine completely stops flowing. Slowly pull the catheter out of the urethra.