General instructions:
You have been discharged with a urinary catheter. The tube is placed into the bladder and will drain urine from the bladder.
The catheter is a hollow tube with a hole in each end. A side arm can be seen on the catheter. The side arm allows a small balloon to be filled in the bladder so the tube does not fall out. The catheter is attached to a drainage bag. Infection can occur if the urine is allowed to flow from the bag back into the bladder. To prevent backflow of urine from the bag into the bladder, keep the bag below the level of the bladder.
The catheter needs to stay connected to a drainage bag to allow continuous drainage. Do not block the flow of urine unless the doctor tells you to. Position the tubing so that you do not sit on it. Avoid wearing tight clothing over the tubing.
The biggest sight of irritation is where the catheter exits the body. Catheters that are not secured may pull at the insertion site and cause it to get bigger and urine may begin leaking out. Tape the catheter so it has a gentle curve on its way to the drainage bag.
Wash around the catheter every day with mild soap and water. Make sure to wash your hands before and after handling the catheter.
To empty the bag, hold it over a container or the toilet and release the tube clamp at the bottom of the bag. Let the bag empty completely and then close the clamp.
To clean the bag, rinse it with warm water and mild soap every day or two depending on odor and how dirty the bag is. A teaspoon of vinegar may be used in the rinse water to help with odor.
Your doctor can let you know how long it will be in place.
Diet:
You may return to your normal diet immediately. To keep your urine flowing freely and to avoid constipation, drink 4-8 ounces of water every hour while awake. Water is best, but juices, coffee, tea, and soda are all acceptable.
Medication:
You should resume your medications unless we tell you otherwise.
Problems you should report to us:
Blockage of the catheter with no flow for an hour or more with a strong urge to urinate
Fever greater than 100.5 degrees F
Heavy bleeding or clots
Reactions to medication (hives, rash, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea)
Follow-up:
The office will call you to schedule an appointment to monitor your progress.
Please call The Urology Clinic at 541-754-1287 if there are any questions.
After hours call 541-754-1150
