The aim of self-catheterization is to promote bladder control by completely emptying the bladder.  Without exception, hands and genital area should be washed prior to the procedure to prevent urinary tract infection.

You should carefully measure and record the amount of urine voided with each urination and the amount drained with each catheterization.  The type and amount of liquid consumed should also be noted.   You should bring this record to their clinic appointments.

• Gather your equipment and arrange it within easy reach:  catheter, KY jelly, cloth or wipe to clean genital area, measuring container for toilet bowel.
  
  
• Wash your hands well with soap and water.
  
  
• Sit comfortably on the toilet seat and arrange clothing out of your way.
  
  
• Urinate if you can into the measuring container within the toilet bowel. Note the amount of urine released.
  
  
• Separate your labia (genital lips) and wash the genital area with soap and water, wiping from the front toward the back.
  
  
• Lubricate the catheter with KY jelly or other water-soluble lubricant.  Because Vaseline or other oil-based lubricants can damage the catheter, they should not be used.
  
  
• Slowly insert the catheter about 3 inches into the urethra (urine opening).  The first few times, a mirror and good lighting may help you identify the urethra.  In time, you may learn to locate the urethra by touch.
  
  
• When the urine begins to flow through the catheter, advance the catheter another inch into the bladder and aim the stream into the measuring container.  Bear down gently with your abdominal muscles to help empty your bladder completely.
  
  
• When the flow stops, slowly remove the catheter.  If urine starts to flow again, stop removing the catheter until the flow stops.  No urine should be left in the bladder.
  
  
• After removing the catheter, wash your hands.   Wash the catheter with soap and water, dry it, and place it in a clean plastic bag.  A catheter should be used for one week and then should be replaced with a new one.
  
  
• Record both the amount of urine collected with normal urination and also the amount of urine removed using the catheter.
  
  

• Fluids and diet:  Try to drink 6-8 glasses of fluids each day.  Avoid acidic juices such
  as tomato, grape, and orange juice, as these can irritate the bladder.
  
  
• Tampons:   Because these may press and block the urethra, they should be removed before catheterization.
  
  
• Bowel function:  Constipation can limit bladder filling and emptying.
  
  
• If your urethra spasms and squeezes around the catheter when removing it, relaxation should overcome this problem.  Leave the catheter in place for a few minutes, then cough; this usually removes the catheter easily. 
  

• If you miss the urethra and put the catheter into the vagina, you will realize this because the sensation will feel different, and no urine will flow.  Remove the catheter and wash it, then start again.
  
  
• If you cannot insert the catheter, do not keep trying as you will become sore.  A warm bath may help to relax the urethral muscles and allow easier insertion.  If you cannot insert the catheter, seek help within 6 hours.   
  
  
• If you see specks of blood in the urine or on the catheter, do not worry, it is probably only due to slight irritation and will clear within a few days.  If it is persistent or is heavy, contact you physician or nurse practitioner.
  
  
• If your urine becomes smelly or cloudy, if you have a fever, or if you have pain when urinating, contact your physician or nurse practitioner.
  
  

The following signs may be a warning of over-distention (over-full bladder):


       Restlessness
       Perspiration
       Chills
       Headache
       Becoming flushed or pale
       Cool extremities

In such cases, catheterize as soon as possible, then keep an accurate record of the frequency of the catheterization and the amount of fluid intake. This should be discussed with the nurse practitioner or physician at your next visit.

Gynecology and Fertility Clinic
Aston Ambulatory Care Building
5303 Harry Hines Blvd., Fifth Floor, Room U5.104
Dallas, Texas 75390-8865
For a complete list of phone numbers CLICK HERE

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