How does a Foley catheter work. What is the proper placement technique for a Foley catheter. What are the essential care instructions for a Foley catheter and drainage bag. How can you reduce the risk of infection when using a Foley catheter.

What is a Foley Catheter and How Does It Function?

A Foley catheter is a crucial medical device used to drain urine from the bladder. It consists of a sterile tube that is inserted through the urethra into the bladder. The catheter’s distinguishing feature is a small balloon at its tip, which is inflated with a sterile solution once inside the bladder. This balloon serves to anchor the catheter in place, ensuring it remains securely positioned.

The primary function of a Foley catheter is to provide continuous drainage of urine from the bladder into a collection bag. This drainage system is particularly beneficial for patients who are unable to urinate independently or need to have their urine output closely monitored.

Key Components of a Foley Catheter

• Sterile tube
• Inflatable balloon at the tip
• Drainage port
• Inflation port for the balloon

Is a Foley catheter the same as an indwelling urinary catheter? Yes, these terms are often used interchangeably in medical settings. Both refer to a catheter that remains in place for an extended period, as opposed to intermittent catheterization, which involves inserting and removing a catheter several times a day.

The Procedure: Foley Catheter Placement Technique

The insertion of a Foley catheter is a delicate procedure that requires strict adherence to sterile techniques to minimize the risk of urinary tract infections. Healthcare professionals follow a specific protocol when placing a Foley catheter:

1. Thorough cleaning of the genital area to create a sterile field
2. Careful insertion of the lubricated catheter through the urethra
3. Advancement of the catheter until urine flow is observed
4. Inflation of the balloon with sterile solution to secure the catheter
5. Connection of the catheter to a sterile drainage system

Does the insertion of a Foley catheter cause discomfort? While patients may experience some discomfort during insertion, the procedure should not be painful. Healthcare providers often use local anesthetic gels to minimize discomfort and facilitate smooth insertion.

Understanding Catheter Drainage Systems

Once a Foley catheter is in place, it is connected to a drainage system to collect urine. There are several types of drainage systems available, each suited to different patient needs and situations:

Leg Drainage Bags

Leg bags are commonly used for ambulatory patients. These bags are strapped to the thigh or calf and can be concealed under clothing. They typically require changing every 5 to 7 days, depending on the manufacturer’s instructions. It’s crucial to empty the bag when it is half to three-quarters full to prevent pulling on the catheter.

Night Drainage Bags

For overnight use, larger 2-liter bags can be connected to the day leg bag. This increased capacity eliminates the need for nighttime emptying, allowing for uninterrupted sleep. These bags should be supported on a catheter drainage bag stand to prevent backflow of urine.

Belly Bags

Some patients, particularly those with suprapubic catheters, may find belly bags more comfortable and convenient. These are worn around the waist and can be easily concealed under clothing.

Catheter Valves

In certain cases, a catheter valve may be recommended instead of a drainage bag. This device allows the bladder to fill naturally and can be opened periodically to empty the bladder. Not all patients are suitable candidates for catheter valves, and their use should be determined by a healthcare professional.

How often should a catheter drainage bag be emptied? As a general rule, drainage bags should be emptied when they are half to three-quarters full. This prevents excessive weight from pulling on the catheter and reduces the risk of infection from stagnant urine.

Essential Care Instructions for Foley Catheters

Proper care of a Foley catheter is crucial for preventing complications such as urinary tract infections and ensuring the device functions correctly. Here are some essential care instructions:

Hand Hygiene

Maintaining impeccable hand hygiene is paramount when handling a Foley catheter. Always wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before and after touching the catheter, tubing, or drainage bag. In clinical settings or when extra precaution is needed, wearing clean disposable gloves is recommended.

Genital Hygiene

Clean the genital area around the catheter insertion site at least twice daily. Use mild soap and water, and always clean from front to back to prevent introducing bacteria from the anal area to the urethra. Rinse thoroughly and pat dry to prevent moisture buildup, which can promote bacterial growth.

Catheter and Tubing Care

Keep the catheter and tubing free from kinks or twists that could impede urine flow. Ensure the drainage bag is always positioned below the level of the bladder to facilitate gravity drainage and prevent backflow of urine. Regularly check the tubing for any signs of blockage or sediment buildup.

Fluid Intake

Maintaining adequate hydration is crucial for patients with indwelling catheters. Sufficient fluid intake helps flush the bladder and catheter, reducing the risk of infection and blockage. Unless otherwise instructed by a healthcare provider, aim for 6-8 glasses of water per day.

How can you tell if a Foley catheter is functioning properly? A properly functioning Foley catheter should have a consistent flow of urine into the drainage bag. If you notice a sudden decrease in urine output, cloudiness, strong odor, or visible blood in the urine, contact your healthcare provider immediately as these could be signs of infection or blockage.

Suprapubic Catheters: An Alternative Approach

In some cases, particularly for long-term catheterization (longer than 30 days), healthcare providers may recommend a suprapubic catheter. This alternative method involves creating an artificial track directly into the bladder through the lower abdominal wall, just below the navel.

Advantages of Suprapubic Catheters

• Reduced risk of urethral damage
• Lower incidence of catheter-associated urinary tract infections
• More suitable for sexually active individuals
• Can be more comfortable for long-term use

The insertion of a suprapubic catheter typically requires a minor surgical procedure and may necessitate a brief hospital stay. However, once in place, routine catheter changes can often be performed at home by trained healthcare professionals.

Do suprapubic catheters require different care than urethral catheters? While many care principles remain the same, suprapubic catheters require additional attention to the insertion site. The area should be kept clean and dry, with daily cleaning using soap and water. Some patients may need to cover the site with a dry dressing, especially in the initial weeks after insertion or if there’s any drainage.

Managing Catheter-Related Complications

While proper care significantly reduces risks, patients with indwelling catheters may still experience complications. Being aware of potential issues and knowing how to address them is crucial for catheter users and their caregivers.

Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)

UTIs are one of the most common complications associated with indwelling catheters. Symptoms may include fever, chills, lower abdominal pain, and cloudy or bloody urine. Prompt medical attention is essential if these symptoms occur.

Catheter Blockage

Blockages can occur due to kinks in the tubing, sediment buildup, or bladder stones. If urine flow stops or significantly decreases, check for visible obstructions and contact your healthcare provider if the issue persists.

Catheter Dislodgement

Accidental removal or partial dislodgement of the catheter can occur. Never attempt to reinsert a dislodged catheter yourself, as this can cause injury or infection. Seek medical assistance immediately if this happens.

Skin Irritation

The area around the catheter insertion site may become irritated or develop sores. Keeping the area clean and dry can help prevent this. If irritation occurs, inform your healthcare provider as special creams or dressings may be necessary.

What should you do if you suspect a catheter-related complication? If you notice any unusual symptoms, changes in urine output, or discomfort related to your catheter, it’s important to contact your healthcare provider promptly. Early intervention can prevent minor issues from developing into more serious complications.

Lifestyle Considerations for Catheter Users

Living with an indwelling catheter requires some lifestyle adjustments, but with proper management, patients can maintain a good quality of life. Here are some considerations for daily living:

Clothing Choices

Opt for loose-fitting clothing that doesn’t put pressure on the catheter or drainage bag. For leg bag users, consider wearing skirts or loose pants that can easily conceal the bag.

Physical Activity

Most forms of physical activity are possible with a catheter, but it’s important to secure the drainage bag to prevent pulling on the catheter. Swimming is generally not recommended due to the risk of infection.

Travel

Traveling with a catheter is feasible with proper planning. Always carry extra supplies and be aware of the locations of restrooms for bag emptying. For air travel, inform security personnel about your catheter to ensure smooth screening processes.

Sexual Activity

For individuals with urethral catheters who wish to engage in sexual activity, it may be possible to learn how to temporarily remove and reinsert the catheter. This should only be done under the guidance of a healthcare professional. Suprapubic catheters often provide more flexibility for sexual activity.

Can you lead a normal life with a long-term catheter? While having an indwelling catheter requires some adjustments, many individuals lead active and fulfilling lives. The key is to work closely with your healthcare team to develop strategies that allow you to manage your catheter effectively while pursuing your regular activities and interests.

Advances in Catheter Technology and Future Prospects

The field of urinary catheterization is continuously evolving, with ongoing research aimed at improving patient comfort and reducing complications. Some recent advancements and areas of research include:

Antimicrobial Catheters

These catheters are coated with substances that inhibit bacterial growth, potentially reducing the risk of catheter-associated urinary tract infections. While promising, more research is needed to determine their long-term effectiveness and cost-effectiveness.

Smart Catheters

Researchers are developing catheters with built-in sensors that can detect early signs of infection or blockage. These devices could alert healthcare providers to potential problems before symptoms appear, allowing for earlier intervention.

Improved Materials

New catheter materials are being developed that are more biocompatible, reducing the risk of allergic reactions and improving overall comfort. Some materials are designed to be more resistant to encrustation, which can lead to blockages.

Alternative Drainage Systems

Innovations in drainage systems, such as more discreet and comfortable collection devices, are continually being introduced to improve quality of life for catheter users.

What does the future hold for catheter technology? While it’s difficult to predict specific developments, the trend is towards more personalized, comfortable, and infection-resistant catheter systems. Future catheters may incorporate nanotechnology or drug-delivery systems to further reduce complications and improve patient outcomes.

In conclusion, understanding the function, proper care, and management of Foley catheters is crucial for patients and caregivers alike. While living with a catheter presents challenges, advancements in technology and care strategies continue to improve the experience for users. By following proper care guidelines and staying informed about new developments, individuals with indwelling catheters can maintain their health and quality of life effectively.

How Does A Catheter Work?

A catheter drains urine from the bladder into a drainage bag which may be supported at thigh or calf level. The leg drainage bag requires changing every 5 to 7 days depending on manufacturers instructions.

A Belly Bag or a catheter valve may be recommended. Your District Nurse or Continence Advisor will advise you on which type may be appropriate for your needs.

If you do use a leg drainage bag then it requires emptying when it is half to three-quarters full. Always ensure it does not pull on the catheter.

The bags are usually of 350ml, 500ml, 750ml or 1litre capacity for daytime use (depending on manufacturer). At night an extra 2-litre bag can be fitted easily to the day leg bag to increase the available capacity. These larger night bags mean you don’t have to get up in the night to empty the bag. They should be supported on a catheter drainage bag stand.

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The Catheter in Situ

An indwelling urethral catheter is passed through the urethra (the tube through which urine passes). This is the usual method of draining urine from the bladder when short-term drainage is required (usually less than 30 days).

If you are sexually active it may be possible to be taught to remove your indwelling urethral catheter prior to intercourse and insert a new one afterwards. You may wish to discuss this with your partner. The District Nurse or Continence Advisor will advise you so don’t be embarrassed to discuss this.

Suprapubic Catheters

In some cases when long term catheterisation is needed (longer than 30 days), the preferred method of drainage is via a suprapubic catheter. This method involves a small operation to form an artificial track directly into the bladder and the catheter is inserted through the lower abdominal wall directly below the belly button. Both men and women can have this type of catheter.

This type of catheter is generally administered when the urethral route cannot be used or if a person is still sexually active. It also reduces the risks of complications from catheter-associated urinary tract infections which are more commonly associated with urethral indwelling catheters.

A Suprapubic catheter is normally inserted whilst in hospital and may require an overnight stay, however, the routine changes to the catheter can be done at home. Many District Nurses and Continence Advisors are well practised in this procedure.

Some people prefer to cover the site with a dry dressing but this is only necessary for the initial few weeks after insertion or if there is leakage or exudate. The area needs to be kept clean by daily bathing or whilst showering, or by cleansing with soap and water and drying well afterwards.

Leg bags and catheter valves can be used by those assessed for suitability but some users of suprapubic catheters may find the Belly Bag more useful. These are available on prescription, see your Healthcare Professional for information.

Please see our additional resources for more information:

• Indwelling Catheterisation
• Suprapubic Catheters
• Drainage Bags
• Attaching or disconnecting a drainage bag
• Catheter Problems

You can download our complete Catheter Care Guide here, or read our FAQ’s session with our very own Catheter Nurse.

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Foley Catheter Placement and Care

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Jul 3, 2023.

• Care notes
• Aftercare
• Ambulatory
• Discharge
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What is a Foley catheter?

A Foley catheter is a sterile tube that is inserted into your bladder to drain urine. It is also called an indwelling urinary catheter. The tip of the catheter has a small balloon filled with solution that holds the catheter in your bladder.

How is a Foley catheter placed?

Your genital area will be cleaned to prevent infection. The catheter will be inserted into your urethra. When urine begins to flow into the tubing, the balloon is filled to keep the catheter in place. Then, the open end will be attached to a drainage bag.

How do I care for my catheter and drainage bag?

You can reduce your risk for infection and injury by caring for your catheter and drainage bag properly.

• Wash your hands often. Wash before and after you touch your catheter, tubing, or drainage bag. Use soap and water. Wear clean disposable gloves when you care for your catheter or disconnect the drainage bag. Wash your hands before you prepare or eat food.
  
• Clean your genital area 2 times every day. Clean your catheter area and anal opening after every bowel movement.
  • For men: Use a soapy cloth to clean the tip of your penis. Start where the catheter enters. Wipe backward making sure to pull back the foreskin. Then use a cloth with clear water in the same direction to clean away the soap.
  • For women: Use a soapy cloth to clean the area that the catheter enters your body. Make sure to separate your labia and wipe toward the anus. Then use a cloth with clear water and wipe in the same direction.
• Secure the catheter tube so you do not pull or move the catheter. This helps prevent pain and bladder spasms. Healthcare providers will show you how to use medical tape or a strap to secure the catheter tube to your body.
• Keep a closed drainage system. Your catheter should always be attached to the drainage bag to form a closed system. Do not disconnect any part of the closed system unless you need to change the bag.
• Keep the drainage bag below the level of your waist. This helps stop urine from moving back up the tubing and into your bladder. Do not loop or kink the tubing. This can cause urine to back up and collect in your bladder. Do not let the drainage bag touch or lie on the floor.
• Empty the drainage bag when needed. The weight of a full drainage bag can be painful. Empty the drainage bag every 3 to 6 hours or when it is ⅔ full.
• Clean and change the drainage bag as directed. Ask your healthcare provider how often you should change the drainage bag and what cleaning solution to use. Wear disposable gloves when you change the bag. Do not allow the end of the catheter or tubing to touch anything. Clean the ends with an alcohol pad before you reconnect them.

What can I do if problems develop?

• No urine is draining into the bag:
  • Check for kinks in the tubing and straighten them out.
  • Check the tape or strap used to secure the catheter tube to your skin. Make sure it is not blocking the tube.
  • Make sure you are not sitting or lying on the tubing.
  • Make sure the urine bag is hanging below the level of your waist.
• Urine leaks from or around the catheter, tubing, or drainage bag: Check if the closed drainage system has accidently come open or apart. Clean the catheter and tubing ends with a new alcohol pad and reconnect them.

When should I seek immediate care?

• Your catheter comes out.
• You suddenly have material that looks like sand in the tubing or drainage bag.
• No urine is draining into the bag and you have checked the system.
• You have pain in your hip, back, pelvis, or lower abdomen.
• You are confused or cannot think clearly.

When should I call my doctor?

• You have a fever.
• You have bladder spasms for more than 1 day after the catheter is placed.
• You see blood in the tubing or drainage bag.
• You have a rash or itching where the catheter tube is secured to your skin.
• Urine leaks from or around the catheter, tubing, or drainage bag.
• The closed drainage system has accidently come open or apart.
• You see a layer of crystals inside the tubing.
• You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.

Care Agreement

You have the right to help plan your care. Learn about your health condition and how it may be treated. Discuss treatment options with your healthcare providers to decide what care you want to receive. You always have the right to refuse treatment. The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.

© Copyright Merative 2023 Information is for End User’s use only and may not be sold, redistributed or otherwise used for commercial purposes.

Further information

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Medical Disclaimer

How to choose a Foley catheter? Foley catheter and prostatic catheter are the main differences.

In today’s article we will tell you how to choose a Foley catheter, what you need to consider when buying, what types and structural features of urethral catheters, and how prostatic catheters differ from Foley catheters.

A Foley catheter or urethral catheter is a special medical device designed to drain urine from the bladder. To do this, it is introduced into the cavity of the bladder through natural ways – the urethra – and fixed with a balloon. Such a catheter is installed for a period of 1 to 90 days. Foley catheter is not uncommon in the Russian market. It can be ordered at a specialized company dealing with medical equipment and consumables, medical equipment stores, pharmacies, and some orthopedic salons. When buying a Foley catheter, do not forget to purchase a urinal – a special product that is attached to the Foley catheter, where urine enters after excretion from the body.

How to choose a Foley catheter?

To buy a Foley catheter, you need to clarify with your doctor the following parameters, knowledge of which will greatly facilitate your ordering a catheter:

Catheter size (diameter). The unit of measurement for the diameter of catheters is Sharière (Ch, Shr) or French (Fr). 1 Ch/Fr = 0.33 mm. The size of the catheter is chosen by the attending physician based on the patient’s condition, the time of installation, and the material of the catheter. As a rule, 6-10 Ch are children’s sizes, 14-16 Ch are more often for women, and 20-24 for men. Each case is unique, so never buy a Foley catheter without a doctor’s prescription. There are also various recommendations of professional urological associations – the Russian Society of Urology, the European Society of Urology – which detail the criteria for choosing a catheter diameter.

If the catheter is often clogged, you can choose a larger size. It must be remembered that the larger the diameter of the catheter, the higher the risk of injury to the urethra.

Another characteristic of the product associated with the size of the Foley catheter is the color coding. This helps doctors and nurses in the operating room or treatment room quickly find the right catheter based on its color, and not on the labels on the packaging or on the catheter itself. The color coding may vary from manufacturer to manufacturer, but it is usually universal and helps doctors navigate the range of consumables more easily. In the picture above you will see a red connector – this is the part in the Foley catheters that is color-coded. We see the red connector and understand that this catheter is 18 Ch.

Foley catheter length. Foley catheters can be male or female. This is due to anatomical features – the urethral canal in men is longer than in women. The length of the female Foley catheter is about 25 cm, the male catheter is 40-42 cm. The female Foley catheter is not available in all medical equipment stores and pharmacies, and besides, it cannot be used in men, so women and men are prescribed universal catheters 40 cm long.

Size balloon. To fix the catheter in the bladder cavity, a balloon is used, located at the distal end of the catheter. Upon insertion, the balloon is deflated and does not protrude above the catheter surface. With the successful introduction of the catheter into the bladder, the balloon is “inflated” with saline to the desired volume. Thanks to a special valve in the connector, saline does not flow back. Foley catheters most often have a balloon volume of 30 ml, but there are models with a balloon of 15 or 50 ml. In children’s Foley catheters, the volume of the balloon is 1.5-5 ml. The balloon prevents the urethral catheter from “falling out” of the bladder.

Foley catheter tip straight or curved or Nelaton vs Tiemann. The tip of the Foley catheter (the part above the balloon) can be straight or curved. The straight form (classic version) is the most common model. Such a tip is also called the Nelaton catheter, after the urologist who first used a urethral catheter to divert urine. For complicated cases of insertion, for example, with prostatic hyperplasia, there is a coracoid curved tip – the Tiemann catheter. The tip itself in Tiemann or Nelaton catheters is closed with two side holes.

Foley catheter material. The material of the catheter directly affects the comfort of the patient, the frequency of replacement of the catheter and its operational characteristics. Today, Foley catheters are made from:

• Silicone-coated latex (siliconized latex) is a cheap material, quite soft, porous. Unfortunately, many patients are allergic to latex, making long-term use impossible. To reduce the risk of allergies, as well as to improve performance, the latex catheter is coated with a micron layer of silicone. A latex Foley catheter is placed for up to 7 days.
• Silicone is a fully biocompatible material that does not cause inflammation or allergic reactions. Silicone catheters are soft, with a thin wall. Silicone Foley catheters have a large internal lumen, which provides better urine diversion. They clog less and can be installed for up to 30 days. Children’s catheters are made of silicone. The special treatment of the silicone and the surface of the catheter allowed them to be installed for up to 90 days – for example, the X-Tra and Folisyl LT series from Coloplast.
• “Silver” is an outdated type of catheter. Material: silicone with a layer of silver, so these catheters are often called “silver plated”. It was believed that silver catheters have antibacterial activity, however, studies have shown that the presence of a layer of silver does not significantly affect either the development of infection or the time of installation. Due to low profitability and lack of clear clinical efficacy, silver catheters are practically withdrawn from circulation. Instead, patients are advised to buy long-lasting silicone Foley catheters (with an insertion period of up to 90 days).

Number of strokes: 2 or 3? The most problematic issue. Unfortunately, due to errors in terminology, doctors, patients, and pharmacy staff often confuse three-way Foley catheters with prostatic catheters (TURP catheters, hemostatic catheters). The classic Foley catheter has 2 passages, that is, 2 channels, one of which is used for urine diversion, and the second for balloon inflation. In some cases, a third channel / passage is required – for washing and introducing medicinal substances into the bladder cavity.

However, there are prostatic or three-way catheters. Prostatic catheters are used exclusively in men after prostate surgery – resection of the prostate. Do not confuse them with Foley catheters. Despite the similar structure and function, both of these catheters differ. These differences are:

• Balloon volume: for prostatic catheters, the balloon has a volume of 50-120 ml to effectively prevent bleeding after prostate surgery (for Foley catheters it is 15-30 ml).
• Tip structure: prostatic catheters are divided into types Dufo, Delinot, Kuveler and others. The curved Dufour and straight Kuveler tips also have a large drainage hole for successful drainage of urine, blood clots, pieces of tissue and mucus. Below is a typical three-way Dufour catheter.

• Diameter: prostatic catheters size 18 to 24 Ch/Fr. Foley catheters have a much wider size range – from 6 to 30 Ch.
• Number of channels: prostatic catheters are usually always three-way.

Attention! This article is not a call for self-treatment! Be sure to consult with your doctor! Never insert and remove urethral catheters yourself!

Bottom line: any patient may be faced with the need to purchase Foley catheters. When choosing a catheter, it is important to know its dimensions, which are measured in Charrière / French, balloon volume, number of strokes. When buying, check all the data, be sure to check the expiration date of the medical product, the presence of the Registration Certificate and the Declaration and compliance, the availability of instructions. If you find it difficult to choose, then we recommend you the following positions:

• Classic 100% silicone Foley catheter: 30 ml balloon volume, sizes 14-24 Ch/Fr, for up to 30 days of placement.
• 100% Silicone Dufour Prostatic Three-Way Catheter: 50 ml balloon volume, sizes 18-24 Ch/Fr, for up to 30 days of placement.
• Dufour Prostatic 3-Way Short Tip 100% Silicone Catheter: 50 ml balloon, sizes 18-24 Ch/Fr, for up to 30 days.

You can buy Foley catheters in Moscow at Uromed M by calling +7 495 783 68 11 or by sending a request to e-mail [email protected] We work with individuals and legal entities. Fast delivery to any region of Russia. No minimum order!

Uromed M is the official distributor of Coloplast products (France) in Russia. Direct deliveries from the Coloplast factory from France.

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About the Foley Urinary Catheter: How to Clean and Care

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Time to read:
Approximately 7 min.

This information will help you learn about caring for your urinary catheter (Foley).

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About the urinary catheter (Foley)

A Foley catheter is a thin, flexible tube placed through the urethra (the small tube that carries urine from the bladder) into the bladder. The Foley catheter drains your urine. It is held inside the bladder with a balloon filled with water.

How the Foley catheter works

Urine exits the bladder into the bag through a drainage tube. The urinal is fixed on the leg with a special patch Cath-Secure ^® .

You will have 2 types of urinals:

• Foot urinal. This is a urinal that you wear during the day. It holds half a liter of urine.
• Night urinal. You will wear this urinal in the evening before going to bed. It holds 2 liters of urine.

Parts of the catheter outside your body are shown in Figure 1.

Figure 1. Parts of the Foley catheter and bag

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How to care for your Foley catheter

Caring for your Foley catheter:

• flush the catheter daily;
• change urinals; you must do this 2 times a day:
  • In the morning, replace your night bag with a foot bag.
  • At night, before going to bed, replace the foot bag with a night bag.
• Change urinals to new ones once a week; you should also change the urinal if it is clogged or clogged;
• flush urinals daily;
• Drink 1-2 glasses of fluid every 2 hours while you are awake to stay hydrated.

There may be traces of blood or urine around the insertion site of the catheter. This can happen while walking or having a bowel movement. It is normal if urine continues to pass into the urinal. Call your health care provider if urine does not come into the bag.

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How to make your Foley catheter and leg bag comfortable to wear

• The tube on the foot urinal should reach to the lower leg with a slightly bent leg. If the tube is too long, you will need to cut it. Your healthcare provider will show you how to do this.
• The foot urinal must be secured below the knee. This will encourage the flow of urine into it.
• Attach the leg bag to your lower leg with the Velcro® straps provided by your healthcare provider. Attach the tube to your thigh using the strap.
• If the straps leave marks on your leg, then they are too tight. Relax them. Tight straps can reduce blood flow and lead to blood clots.
• Apply a water-based lubricant (such as Astroglide® or K-Y®) to the penis or vaginal opening.
• Shower daily to keep your penis or vaginal opening clean. This will help prevent infections when using a Foley catheter.

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How to shower with a Foley catheter in place

• You can shower while your catheter is in place.
• Do not take a bath until the catheter is removed. Bathing with a catheter in place puts you at risk of infection.
• Always shower with a night bag. It is waterproof. Do not shower with a foot bag. The fabric on the side of such a urinal will not dry quickly.
  • You may find it easier to shower in the morning before changing from your night bag to a leg bag.

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How to clean your Foley catheter

You can clean your catheter while in the shower. Follow these instructions:

1. Prepare everything you need. You will need:
   • Mild soap such as Dove®.
   • 1 Cath-Secure® patch.
2. Wash your hands with soap and water or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
   • If you wash your hands with soap, wet them and lather. Rub thoroughly for at least 20 seconds, then rinse. Dry your hands with a paper towel. Turn off the faucet with the same towel.
   • If using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer, apply it to your hands. Rub your hands together until it dries completely.
3. Wash your penis or vagina with mild soap and water.
   • If you have your foreskin (the skin around the glans penis) spared, move it back. Then wash the area and the penis itself.
   • Separate the labia (small folds of skin around the vaginal opening) from the vagina. Then rinse this area from front to back.
4. Clean the area where the catheter enters your body. This is the urethra.
5. When cleaning the catheter, make movements from the place of its introduction into the body and down, away from the catheter. Hold the catheter at the site of its introduction into the body so that it does not stretch.
6. Rinse your perineum well and pat it dry gently.
7. If you removed the old Cath-Secure patch, attach the catheter to your leg with a new Cath-Secure patch. This will prevent displacement of the catheter.

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When to change urinals

You must change urinals 2 times a day. Change it:

• In the morning after taking a shower, replace the night bag with a foot bag.
• At night, before going to bed, replace the foot urinal with a night bag.

Replace your bags with new ones once a week. You should also replace the urinal if it becomes clogged or clogged.

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How to change a urinal

Details on video

1. Prepare everything you need. You will need:
   • Clean tissue (not showered) or 4″ x 4″ gauze
   • Night or foot urinal (depending on which urinal needs to be installed)
   • 2 alcohol wipes;
2. Wash your hands with soap and water or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
   • If you wash your hands with soap, wet them and lather. Rub thoroughly for at least 20 seconds, then rinse. Dry your hands with a paper towel. Turn off the faucet with the same towel.
   • If using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer, apply it to your hands. Rub your hands together until it dries completely.
3. Empty the urinal into the toilet. Make sure that the neck of the urinal does not touch the wall of the toilet bowl or the waste container being used. If this happens, wipe it with an alcohol swab for 15 seconds.
4. Place a clean cloth or gauze under the connection to catch any spills.
5. Squeeze the catheter with your fingers and remove the used urinal.
6. Wipe the tip of the catheter with an alcohol wipe.
7. Wipe the connection of the new urinal with a second alcohol pad.
8. Attach a clean urinal to the catheter and spread your fingers. Make sure the catheter is tightly connected to the bag so that it does not open or leak.
9. Check all connections. Straighten out any kinks and kinks in the tubing.

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How to care for urinals

Caring for a portable foot bag

• Empty your foot bag into the toilet every 2 to 4 hours as needed. This can be done through the drain hole at the bottom of the urinal. Do not allow the urinal to fill completely.
• Do not lie down for more than 2 hours while you are using the foot bag. This may interfere with the flow of urine.

Night bag care

• The night urinal should always be below the level of the bladder.
• When you go to bed, hang your night bag on your bed. You can use a small trash can for this. Put a clean plastic bag in the wastebasket. Hang a night bag on the inside of the basket.

Cleaning the urinals

Clean the foot and night bags daily. Follow these instructions:

1. Prepare everything you need. You will need:
   • white vinegar;
   • cold water.
2. Wash your hands with soap and water or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
   • If you wash your hands with soap, wet them and lather. Rub thoroughly for at least 20 seconds, then rinse. Dry your hands with a paper towel. Turn off the faucet with the same towel.
   • If using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer, apply it to your hands. Rub your hands together until it dries completely.
3. Rinse the urinal with cold water. Do not use hot water as it may damage the plastic parts.
4. To get rid of the smell, fill the bag halfway with a mixture of 1 part white vinegar and 3 parts water. Shake the bag and soak it in this mixture for 15 minutes.
   • If you are unable to fill the bag with the mixture, pour it into a measuring cup with a spout, then pour from the glass into a urinal.
5. Rinse the urinal with cold water. Hang it up to dry.

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How to Prevent Infections While Wearing a Foley Catheter

If you have a catheter, follow the guidelines below to help prevent infection.

• The urinal should always be below the level of the bladder.
• The urinal should not touch the floor.
• The catheter must be securely attached to the thigh so that it does not move.
• Do not lie down on the catheter or block the flow of urine in the tube.
• Shower daily to keep your catheter clean.
• Wash your hands thoroughly before and after touching the catheter or urinal.

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General questions about Foley catheter care

Can I insert a Foley catheter myself?

No. The catheter is placed by your healthcare provider.

How long can I wear a Foley catheter before it needs to be changed?

The catheter should be changed about once a month if it is not functioning or if you have an infection.

Can I have a bowel movement if I have a Foley catheter?

Yes. The catheter will not affect bowel movements.

Is it possible to get an erection with a Foley catheter in place?

Yes. With the catheter in place, an erection is possible.

Can I drive with a Foley catheter in place?

You can drive with your catheter in place unless your healthcare provider tells you otherwise.

Can I exercise with a Foley catheter in place?

Ask your healthcare provider if you can exercise with a Foley catheter in place.

Can I swim with a Foley catheter in place?

No. Swimming with a catheter in place is prohibited.

Can I fly with a Foley catheter in place?

Yes. You can fly an airplane with a catheter in place.

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When to contact your healthcare provider

Call your healthcare provider right away if you have:

• your catheter has fallen out – do not try to insert it yourself;
• you have a body temperature of 101°F (38.3°C) or higher;
• you urinate less than usual;
• urine does not enter the urinal;
• urine has an unpleasant odor;
• bright red blood or large blood clots appear in the urine;
• you have pain in your abdomen (belly) and urine is not flowing into the urinal.

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