Catheterization, Female Health Article

Definition

Urinary catheterization is the insertion of a catheter through the urethra into the urinary bladder for withdrawal of urine. Straight catheters are used for intermittent withdrawals; indwelling (Foley) catheters are inserted and retained in the bladder for continuous drainage of urine into a closed system.

Purpose

Intermittent catheterization is used for the following reasons:• To obtain a sterile urine specimen for diagnostic evaluation; to empty bladder content when the patient is unable to void (urinate) due to urinary retention, bladder distention, and obstruction, or to measure residual urine after urination.

• To instill medication for a localized therapeutic effect and to instill contrast material (dye) into the bladder through the urethral catheter for cystourethralgraphy (x ray of the bladder and urethra).
• To empty the bladder for increased space in the pelvic cavity to protect the bladder during labor and delivery and during pelvic and abdominal surgery.
• To strictly monitor the urinary output and fluid balance of critically ill patients.

Indwelling catheterization is:

• Indicated as palliative care for terminally ill or severely impaired incontinent patients, for whom bed and clothing changes are uncomfortable, and as a way to manage skin ulceration caused or exacerbated by incontinence.
• Used to maintain a continuous out flow of urine for patients undergoing surgical procedures that cause a delay in bladder sensation, and for persons with chronic neurological disorders that cause paralysis or loss of sensation in the perineal area.
• Indicated for urologic surgery, bladder outlet obstruction, and for patients with an initial episode of acute urinary retention to allow the bladder to regain its tone.

Precautions

Because the urinary tract is normally a sterile system, catheterization presents the risk of causing a urinary tract infection (UTI). The catheterization procedure must be sterile and the catheter must be free from bacteria.

Urinary catheterization aids or replaces the body's normal ability to urinate. Intermittent use of the procedure can stimulate normal bladder function, however frequent and continuous catheterization can lead to total dependency. Catheterization is invasive and has the potential of injuring the urethra and bladder, inviting urinary tract infections. Therefore aseptic techniques should be use in all catheter management activities.

The normal flow of urine from the kidneys through the ureters, bladder, urethra prevents the movement of bacteria up through the urinary system. The antibacterial properties of the bladder wall, urethra lining, and low urine pH also serve as protective barriers to urinary tract infections. Urinary tract infections occur when bacteria invade the protective barriers of one or more urinary structures.