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What is a Urinary Catheter?
A catheter is a hollow, flexible tube that drains urine from your bladder. A urethral catheter drains through your urethra (the tube through which urine passes).
Why do I need a Catheter?
There are many reasons why people need a catheter: your bladder may not be able to contract on its own to empty itself, or you may need it for other health-related problems. You may need a catheter for a short period, such as before or after surgery, or you may need it permanently.
Ask your nurse or doctor if your catheter is still needed if you still have a catheter in place 48 hours after you come into hospital. The catheter must be removed as soon as possible, especially if it is no longer required.
Having a Catheter Inserted
The way that your catheter is inserted will depend on the reason and length of time that you need it. Once it is in place, a balloon is inflated inside your bladder to prevent the catheter from falling out. Your catheter will be attached either to a urometer (measurement container), leg bag or a catheter valve. This will need to be supported close to your body to prevent the catheter from pulling and causing you discomfort.
Hygiene
Before and after touching your catheter, you must always wash your hands thoroughly.
You can shower as normal with a catheter. If you have a leg bag, do NOT disconnect it, as this could introduce an infection. If you are not able to have a shower, wash the area where the catheter enters your body twice a day. Wash the area using downward strokes from where it enters the body. Again, this is to help prevent infection.
Your Diet and Fluids
It is important to eat a balanced diet of fruit, vegetables and fibre to avoid constipation (difficulty or pain emptying your bowels). If your bowel is full, which happens when you are constipated, it can press on your bladder, reduce urine drainage and may block the catheter.
Drinking is very important when you have a catheter. Try to drink at least one-and-a-half to two litres per day (six to eight large glasses of fluid), unless you have been otherwise advised by your healthcare professional. This will help prevent infections and flush out any debris in your bladder.
Are there any Risks with having a Catheter?
Your doctor/nurse will discuss any risks with you before asking for your consent to insert the catheter. One significant risk is urinary tract infection (UTI). The longer a catheter is in place, the greater the danger. Following the guidance on your diet, fluids and hygiene will help to reduce the risk.
Although microorganisms may reside in your bladder or catheter, this does not necessarily mean you will become ill and does not mean you should take antibiotics.
Blood in your Urine
When the catheter is first inserted or changed you may notice a blood stain in your urine. We recommend you drink extra fluids as this usually helps to flush the blood out. If this continues, you should ask your nurse or doctor for an advice.
Soreness
If you experience soreness, ensure your catheter retention strap is correctly fitted, as well as your leg straps if wearing a leg bag.
Catheter Removal
Upon removal of the catheter, the balloon in the catheter is deflated and pulled out gently. You may find it uncomfortable when the catheter is removed but it should not be painful. In addition, continue to drink plenty of fluids to further prevent UTIs.
Please inform your nurse if you find it difficult passing urine after the catheter is removed
Contact us
If you have any queries relating to this information, please contact the Infection prevention and control (IPC) service.
About this information
Service:
Infection prevention and control (IPC)
Reference:
LL/016
Approval date:
30 December 2024
Review date:
1 December 2027
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Important note
This page provides general information only. It is developed by clinical staff and is reviewed regularly every 3 years for accuracy. For personal advice about your health, or if you have any concerns, please speak to your doctor.