Instructions for Boys
- Assemble equipment and place in an accessible area. Equipment needed includes: catheter, water soluble lubricant, and cotton balls soaked with soap and water. Inspect catheter before use. Do not use product if device or product is damaged.
- Wash hands with soap and water.
- Catheterization can be done sitting or standing.
- Lubricate the catheter end that will go into the urethra. Lubrication should go from the tip of the catheter to approximately 6-8" up the tubing.
- Hold the penis upright on the sides so that the urethra is straight and not pinched.
- Retract the foreskin if you son is uncircumcised. Wash the penis from the opening (tip) to the base of the glans with the cotton balls soaked with water and a mild soap. You should wash in a circular motion at the tip and working outward. Use each cotton ball once and discard. Never wash back and forth over the urethral opening.
- While holding the penis upright, insert the catheter gently. Just before the bladder you may feel some resistance. Do not push the catheter in and out if resistance is met. Rather, hold the catheter and continue to advance it slowly, using gentle but firm pressure until the muscle relaxes.
- Sometimes having your child take a deep breath and slowly let it out helps. Continue to insert the catheter until urine begins to flow. Then insert the catheter approximately 1/2 inch further and hold it there until urine stops flowing. For some boys, a special curved or "coude" catheter may be used. The technique is similar to that outlined above and will be taught to you by your doctor or nurse.
- When urine stops, slowly begin to withdraw the catheter. It is recommended that you slowly withdraw it, and stop each time more urine drains out. Check the color, odor and clarity of the urine to be aware of any changes that you may need to report to your doctor or nurse.
- Never reuse a catheter that appears rough, stiff, worn, discolored, or damaged in any way.
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Pediatric Intermittent Self-Catheters |