Keep clean and protect drainage
- Wash your hands before and after touching the equipment. Clean the skin where the catheter enters daily with mild soap and water, following any additional instructions for your insertion site.
- Secure the tube as taught so it does not pull. Keep tubing free of kinks, with the drainage bag below bladder level and supported off the floor, including overnight.
Handle the bag as you were shown
- Empty the bag before it becomes full. Keep the outlet from touching the toilet or collection container, and close it afterwards. Avoid unnecessary disconnections; follow the taught bag-changing routine.
- Use a catheter valve only if your team recommends it, following its emptying schedule. Never cut or pull out the tube. Clamping, flushing or planned removal needs specific clinical instructions and training.
Plan daily care and follow-up
- Drink within your individual fluid plan and prevent constipation with suitable fibre and movement. Do not try to fix a blocked catheter by forcing yourself to drink large volumes.
- Keep supplies and the contact number for catheter problems. Confirm the planned review, replacement or removal date; the interval depends on your catheter and clinical need.
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