Can I take a shower with a catheter inserted?
Can I apply a lotion or powder to the catheter site?
What else should I do to care for my catheter?
What kind of catheter problems should I talk to my physician about?
How should drainage bags be safely handled?
Tips For Catheter Use
Can I take a shower with a catheter inserted?
Yes, there is no problem taking a shower while wearing a catheter, unless your physician does not recommend it. Baths are generally not recommended. While showering, avoid excessive hot or cold water.
Can I apply a lotion or powder to the catheter site?
No, you should not use any lotions or powders at the catheter site. Approved lubricants are available to prevent irritation.
What else should I do to care for my catheter?
These tips will help make your catheter use more pleasant:
- Wash twice per day at the catheter site, using soap and water.
- Drink plenty of fluids, preferably water or fruit juice.
- Eat fruits and vegetables.
- Put a piece of gauze around the catheter site in case of leaks. Replace each time the catheter is replaced.
- Keep the drainage bag below the catheter site.
- Do not pull or tug on the catheter.
What kind of catheter problems should I talk to my physician about?
Don’t hesitate to talk to your doctor about any concerns; your health is too important. If you have any of the following symptoms, be sure to talk to your physician:
- Swelling, redness, and excessive draining.
- Blood or a change in the consistancy of your urine(ex. Your urine becomes thicker than usual.)
- Change in the color of your urine.
- A foul odor from the urine.
- A fever of over hundred degrees farenheit or higher.
- Vomiting, nausea, chills.
- Pain in abdomen or lower back.
- Leaking from the catheter or catheter site.
How should drainage bags be safely handled?
- Always wash your hands before and after draining the urine, even if you are putting on gloves. This step is extremely critical in preventing infection.
- Avoid touching the cap and the interior of the collection container.
- Clean any spills immediately.
- Before emptying the drainage bag, make sure that the area is well-lit and is a place where you can easily maintain balance.
Sources
Urinary Catheter Care
Malecare – Caring For Your Catheter
University of Pittsburgh Medical Center – Urinary Catheter Care
Helpful articles
The Urology Channel
eMedicine – Urology Articles
Urological Disorders
Methods for Removing a Nondeflating Foley Catheter
American Urological Association
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