Indication:

Patients with the inability to control their bladder due to reduced level of consciousness or sedation, patients on diuretics or other medications causing increased urine production, and patients who are unable to use a bedpan or rise to void may require insertion or maintenance of a Foley catheter.  This is a sterile procedure and strict aseptic technique should be observed.

Precaution:

• Inability to observe aseptic technique
• Structural abnormality in the urethra or urinary tract
• Pelvic trauma – possible contraindication based on injury pattern

Procedure:

Insertion:

• Open Foley catheter kit and create a sterile field- assure use of sterile gloves
• Cleanse urethral meatus
• Lubricate catheter prior to placement
• Insert catheter assuring sterility during placement
• Advance the catheter slowly repositioning as necessary for gentle insertion
• After urine appears in the tubing, advance the catheter another 2-3 cm
• Stabilize the position of the catheter and inflate the balloon with normal saline
• Tape the catheter in place.  Avoid moving patients where the Foley catheter is not taped as complications may arise from tugging on the inflated catheter
• Attach the drainage system and secure the tubing to the patient’s leg.  Enough slack should remain so that the penis can point upwards toward the patient’s belly in males.

Maintenance

• Maintain an intact system to prevent a loss of sterility
• Observe urine for color, turbidity, odor, output quantity, and overall patient condition
• Avoid any excess movement;  Foley catheter should always be secured in place