Catheterization

Self-Catheterization

While your bladder is being emptied with the help of a catheter, you do not have to do anything to urinate. The catheter, which has been placed through your urethra to your bladder, will automatically drain urine from your bladder.

It is very important that the drainage bag is always lower than your abdomen.

A little leakage around the catheter is normal.

• Refrain from taking baths while the catheter is in place. Showers, however, are fine.
• Before going to bed at night, empty the leg bag.
• Switch the leg bag daily from one leg to the other.
• When showering, wash - with a clean, soapy washcloth - the tip of the penis/urethral opening and the catheter tube from the body out approximately two feet.

Concerns that are normal:

• Bloody discharge from the penis
• Soreness in the lower abdomen

Concerns that should be addressed at once:

• If you drink plenty of fluids and see no urine draining into the bag, and you are uncomfortable, contact your physician.
• Redness, swelling or drainage from the incision