Which statement indicates a need for further teaching of a home care client with a long term indwelling catheter?
A. “I will keep the collecting bag below the level of the bladder at all times.”
B. “Intake of cranberry juice may help decrease the risk of infection.”
C. “Soaking in a warm tub bath may ease the irritation associated with the catheter.”
D. “I should use clean tech. when emptying the collecting bag.”
Correct Answer: C. “Soaking in a warm tub bath may ease the irritation associated with the catheter”
Soaking in a bathtub can increase the risk of exposure to bacteria. Avoid taking baths, but shower daily. For the first few days after getting a suprapubic catheter, use a waterproof bandage when showering. Once the wound heals, the client can shower as usual, but avoid scented soaps.
Option A: The bag should be below the level of the bladder to promote proper drainage. Always keep the bag below the waist. Check the tube once in a while for bends or kinks that keep pee from flowing out. Don’t use any lotions or powders around where the catheter goes into the body.
Option B: Intake of cranberry juice creates an environment nonconducive to infection. “Indwelling” means inside the body. This catheter drains urine from the bladder into a bag outside the body. Common reasons to have an indwelling catheter are urinary incontinence (leakage), urinary retention (not being able to urinate), a surgery that made this catheter necessary, or another health problem.
Option D: Clean technique is appropriate for touching the exterior portions of the system. Wash hands with soap and water. Empty urine from the bag into the toilet. Pinch the catheter closed between the fingers. Remove the bag. Wipe the end of the catheter with a fresh alcohol pad. Wipe the tip of the new bag with the second alcohol pad. Connect the new bag and stop pinching the catheter now. Make sure there are no bends or kinks in the catheter tube. Wash hands again.