Urinary Catheterization Nursing Procedure | Steps, Types, Indications & Care

 

Urinary Catheterization – Procedure, Types, Indications & Nursing Care

By Emanuel Ind, RN (ANMC, INC)

Introduction

Urinary catheterization is a common nursing procedure used in hospitals to drain urine from the bladder. It is an important skill for GNM and BSc Nursing students, both for exams and clinical practice. Proper knowledge of indications, procedure steps and nursing care helps prevent complications such as infection. This topic is frequently asked in nursing examinations.


What is Urinary Catheterization? 

Urinary catheterization is the insertion of a sterile tube (catheter) into the urinary bladder through the urethra to drain urine. It is done for diagnostic or therapeutic purposes.


Types of Urinary Catheters

  1. Indwelling catheter (Foley catheter) – remains in bladder for continuous drainage

  2. Intermittent catheter – inserted temporarily and removed after drainage

  3. Suprapubic catheter – inserted through abdominal wall into bladder


Indications

  • Urinary retention

  • Monitoring urine output

  • During surgery

  • Severe illness or immobility

  • Bladder irrigation

  • Collection of sterile urine sample


Contraindications

  • Urethral injury

  • Severe infection of urinary tract (relative)


Equipment Required

  • Sterile catheter

  • Gloves (sterile)

  • Lubricant

  • Antiseptic solution

  • Syringe with sterile water (for Foley)

  • Drainage bag

  • Drapes and gauze


Procedure Steps (Female)

  1. Explain procedure to patient

  2. Maintain privacy and position patient

  3. Perform hand hygiene and wear gloves

  4. Clean perineal area with antiseptic

  5. Lubricate catheter tip

  6. Insert catheter gently into urethra

  7. Advance until urine flows

  8. Inflate balloon (for Foley catheter)

  9. Attach drainage bag

  10. Secure catheter and record output


Procedure Steps (Male)

  1. Position patient and ensure privacy

  2. Clean penis with antiseptic

  3. Hold penis upright

  4. Insert lubricated catheter slowly

  5. Advance until urine appears

  6. Inflate balloon

  7. Attach drainage system


Complications

  • Urinary tract infection (UTI)

  • Trauma to urethra

  • Hematuria

  • Bladder spasms


Nursing Responsibilities

  • Maintain strict aseptic technique

  • Monitor urine output

  • Keep drainage bag below bladder level

  • Prevent kinking of tube

  • Provide catheter care daily

  • Educate patient about hygiene


Key Points for Exams

  • Catheterization is a sterile procedure

  • Foley catheter has a balloon

  • Used for urine drainage and monitoring

  • Risk of infection is high


FAQ

1. What is urinary catheterization?

It is insertion of a catheter into bladder to drain urine.

2. What is Foley catheter?

It is an indwelling catheter with a balloon for retention.

3. What is the main complication?

Urinary tract infection.

4. Why is aseptic technique important?

To prevent infection.


Conclusion

Urinary catheterization is an essential nursing skill used in many clinical situations. Understanding its types, procedure and care helps prevent complications and ensures patient safety. Regular practice and proper technique are important for nursing students.


Medical Disclaimer

This content is for educational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice.


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