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Catheterisation should only be used as a last resort in the management of incontinence. An indwelling catheter may be inserted into the bladder via the urethra or a supra pubic cystostomy. Catheterisation is associated with a number of potential complications, which in the case of supra pubic catheterisation includes bowel perforation. It should also be remembered that of the 1-4% of patients develop bacteraemia from a catheter acquired urinary tract infection (CAUTI) which can be life threatening. There are, however, some patients for whom long-term catheterisation is the most appropriate form of care.
Before carrying out long-term catheterisation the nurse should:
Catheterisation is an aseptic procedure. The genitalia or meatus should be cleansed prior to insertion with sterile or normal saline. Further information can be obtained from the relevant local policy.
The nurse responsible for the catheterisation will carry out the relevant documentation. This will include:
These retainer devices are for extra support and comfort, and help to keep the catheter in place. The leg or abdomen should be measured to ensure the correct size is ordered. Abdominal straps may be cut to fit the leg.
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