If your catheter becomes blocked, living with a catheter can pose challenges.If you don't know what's causing the problem, this can be very difficult.Simple issues can be checked and corrected on your own.Sometimes you need to seek medical help for a problem.If you are having trouble with your bladder, you should go to the emergency room.Take precautions to prevent future obstructions once they are clear.
Step 1: Do you know if the catheter is in your urethra or vagina?
It is possible to insert a catheter into the vaginal canal instead of the urethra because they are next to each other.If you are female, look to see where you put the catheter.If the catheter is in your vagina, you need to get a new one.If you reinsert the same catheter that was in your vagina, it will spread germs to your urethra, which could lead to an infection.
Step 2: If you are male, you should know if the catheter has 10 cm visible.
If you have properly inserted the catheter into your penis, this is the correct amount that should be visible.If there is more or less than this amount visible, you can adjust the catheter by placing it in further or pulling it out.
Step 3: Wait for 2 to 3 minutes after the gel is dissolved.
It is possible to block the drainage holes in the catheter with lubricating gel.Once urine begins to flow, catheter lubricating gel will start dissolving.If you just inserted the catheter, try to check it again in 3 minutes.Try another method to get the urine flowing.
Step 4: To start the flow of urine, cough.
If there is no urine in the drainage bag within 5 minutes, try coughing a few times.This can start the flow of urine.Check to see if there is any urine in the bag.You do not need to cough hard.If you cough a few times, you will clear your throat.If there is no urine in the bag, look for other possible causes.
Step 5: If there are problems with the catheter or drainage bag tubing, it's time to fix it.
The urine will not flow freely if the drainage bag tubing is twisted, kinked, or pressed against your body with too much pressure.To make sure you don't find any problems, trace the tubing from where your urethra ends to where it meets the drainage bag.Take the tubing out from under any clothing or straps that may be pressing on it.If you use a leg strap to keep your catheter secured, make sure it's not blocked.Try another option if the urine is not flowing after you check the tubing.
Step 6: The bag should be lowered below the level of the bladder.
Hold the bag above the bladder for 20 to 30 seconds.The drainage bag should be lowered below the level of the bladder.The re-positioning technique may be able to get urine back into the bag.If there is urine in the bag, it's time to check it out.Try to keep the bag in the same position.Place the bag below the level of your bladder if you need to move or change positions.Try the next option if this doesn't work out.
Step 7: The last thing you want to do is remove the tubing from the catheter.
Before you do this, place a collection cup or bedpan under the catheter.The collection bag should be removed from the end of the catheter.The bag can be used to create a vacuum and stop the urine from flowing.If this doesn't work, you can call your doctor's office or the emergency department of your nearest hospital.If you can't feel your bladder or you're uncomfortable, go to the emergency department of your nearest hospital.
Step 8: Seek immediate medical assistance if you see signs of a problem.
There are a number of things to watch for that could indicate a problem with your catheter.If you have any of the following issues, you should seek immediate medical attention.
Step 9: The catheter needs to be flushed.
If you notice that your urine looks cloudy or has debris in it, it may be something blocking your catheter.If a doctor or nurse is trained to clean out the tubing, the catheter will work better.If the catheter is frequently blocked, you may need to be checked for bladder stones.Inform your doctor if you have any other symptoms, such as abdominal pain.
Step 10: If the tubing is blocked by debris, ask about an all-silicone catheter.
If your urine is cloudy or has debris, it may be causing obstructions in the tubing.If you use a catheter made from vinyl or red rubber latex, your doctor may recommend a more flexible catheter, such as an all-Silicone catheter.The chances of your catheter becoming blocked may be reduced by this.
Step 11: If you want to change it yourself, get a new catheter every 4 to 6 weeks.
Replacing an indwelling catheter every 4 to 6 weeks is recommended by your doctor.If it is well cared for and you don't have any problems, you can leave it in place for as long as 3 months before changing it.If you have been taught how, you can change your catheter at your doctor's office.It is recommended to change your suprapubic catheter every 6 to 8 weeks.If you have concerns about changing your catheter, always ask for help.
Step 12: The urine should be left in the bag to prevent a vacuum.
The sides of the bag may stick together if they are completely emptied every time.This will prevent urine from draining into the bag.When you empty the drainage bag, always leave about 5–10 liters of urine in it.If you are keeping track of your fluid intake and output, you should note this.
Step 13: The bag needs to be emptied.
Try to check your bag every 2 to 3 hours.If it is 1/3 full or close to that level, empty it.The flow of urine can be affected by waiting until the bag is full.If you empty the catheter when it is 1/3 full you will be able to use it more effectively.
Step 14: Before and after handling catheter equipment, wash your hands.
Rub soap between your hands for 20 seconds.After rinsing your hands thoroughly, pat them dry with a towel.It's a good idea to do this before and after handling catheter equipment.You can time yourself for 20 seconds by humming the happy birthday song twice.If you can't wash your hands with soap and water, use alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
Step 15: Good hygiene is maintained by washing the area around the catheter twice daily.
It is possible to wash the area around your genitals with a shower or bath twice a day.If you can't bathe this often, use a wet washcloth and soap to clean the area around your catheter twice daily.After washing the area with soap, make sure to rinse it thoroughly.
Step 16: Don't drink too much liquids.
If you're dehydrated, it can make it seem like your catheter is blocked even if it's not.You can keep yourself hydrated by drinking water and other fluids throughout the day.If the urine is pale yellow, it's time to check the drainage bag.Drink more fluids if it is darker than pale yellow.Be sure to follow your doctor's guidelines for fluid intake.
Step 17: It's a good idea to follow a high-fiber diet.
You should include lots of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains in your diet.If you are a woman under 50 you should aim for 25 grams of fiber a day.If you are a man over 50, aim for 30 grams per day.If you want to meet your daily fiber goal, you could include a fiber supplement.Constipation is one of the reasons why some people have their catheters blocked.