"The first time I did this for my mother I was worried I would hurt her or make a mess. But I followed the instructions and everything went okay. I've been doing this four times a day for six months now. It's become part of my mother's daily care routine and takes less than five minutes each time."

What it is

Clean Intermittent Catheterisation is a way to empty the bladder using a thin tube known as a catheter. The catheter is inserted into the bladder several times a day to drain the urine.

Patients can learn to insert the catheter themselves or it can be done by a caregiver.

Items needed

• Female catheter (Nelaton) S10

• Wet wipes

• Cleansing solution, as recommended

• Kidney dish / Receiver

• Water soluble gel e.g. Aquagel

• Measuring jug

• Disposable latex gloves

• A 50cc size syringe

• Protective sheet such as a paper towel

• A plastic container/bag to store catheter (Optional)

How to insert the catheter

Helpful tips

• Drink 1.5 to 2 litres of fluids every day unless advised otherwise.

• Do not drink after 8pm – this is to prevent your bladder becoming overfull (distended) during the night.

• Do not skip catheterisations.

• Stick to the schedule as advised by your doctor or nurse.

• Empty your bowels regularly.

• If you have any problems, call the continence nurse.

To re-use the catheter:

1. Clean the outside of the catheter with soap and water after use.
2. To clean the inside, flush 50cc of water through the catheter using a large syringe.
3. Shake off the water and dry catheter with a clean paper hand towel.
4. Keep the catheter in a dry plastic container and store it in a dry place.
5. Wash the kidney dish with soap and water and dry it.
6. Replace the catheter every 3 days or earlier if it becomes discoloured or rough.

See a doctor immediately if you have:

1. Trouble inserting the catheter or there is more pain when the catheter is inserted.
2. Little or no urine flow with distended bladder.
3. Blood in the urine.
4. Foul smelling urine or bits (sediments) seen in the urine.
5. Pain in the lower back or lower part of the abdomen (around the tummy or below it).
6. Fever or chills.

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