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Suprapubic Catheter Care

Table of Contents


Overview

A suprapubic catheter is a thin tube that drains urine from your bladder. The tube is put into your bladder through a small cut in your lower belly. The urine collects in a bag attached to the tube. The bag is usually attached to your leg. Sometimes the catheter tube has a valve that lets you drain the urine into the toilet or other container.

You may need a suprapubic catheter if you have nerve damage, a problem with your urinary tract, or a disease that weakens your muscles.

Having a catheter for a long time increases the risk of getting a urinary tract infection. So catheter care focuses on preventing infection.

How can you care for yourself when using the catheter?

Clean the area around the catheter with soap and water daily.

How do you empty the catheter bag?

If your doctor has asked you to keep a record, write down the amount of urine in the bag before you empty it.

Wash your hands before and after you touch the bag.

  1. Remove the drain spout from its sleeve at the bottom of the drainage bag.
  2. Open the valve on the drain spout. Let the urine flow out into the toilet or a container. Be careful not to let the tubing or drain spout touch anything.
  3. After you empty the bag, close the valve. Then put the drain spout back into its sleeve at the bottom of the collection bag.

How do you replace the catheter?

Your catheter may have to be replaced every 4 to 6 weeks. A caregiver may do this for you.

You may be given a catheter kit that has the supplies you need. If you have not received a kit, ask your doctor what you'll need. Some of the things you'll need include a new catheter, syringes, sterile fluid, gloves, skin cleaning supplies, and lubricant.

Here are general instructions for replacing the catheter. Your doctor, nurse, or home health care worker may give you more specific instructions.

Removing the catheter

Putting a new catheter in

Don't wait to put in the new catheter. If you wait, the opening can close.

When should you call for help?

Call your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:

Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor if you have any problems.


Credits for Suprapubic Catheter Care

Current as of: November 15, 2023

Author: Healthwise Staff (https://www.healthwise.org/specialpages/legal/abouthw/en)
Clinical Review Board (https://www.healthwise.org/specialpages/legal/abouthw/en)
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.


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