Catheterisation of a Female Patient

Procedure

1. Confirm the indication — catheterise only where clinically necessary.
2. Ensure privacy, explain the procedure and obtain consent.
3. Gather the catheter pack, appropriate Foley catheter, sterile water, syringe, lubricant and drainage bag.
4. Position the patient supine with knees flexed and hips abducted.
5. Wash hands, don sterile gloves and drape the patient.
6. Separate the labia with the non-dominant hand — this hand is now contaminated and must not move.
7. Clean the vulva from front to back with each swab used once.
8. Insert the lubricated catheter into the urethral meatus until urine flows, then advance a further 5 cm.
9. Inflate the balloon with the stated volume of sterile water and gently withdraw until resistance is felt.
10. Connect to the closed drainage system and secure the catheter to the thigh.
11. Measure and document the residual volume, and record the insertion date for removal planning.