Policy Manual sample

MDT Home Health Care Agency, Inc. 25 CATHETER CARE PURPOSE: Catheter care is given in accordance with the physician's plan of care to assess the skin for irritation or breakdown, to prevent infection, to promote good hygiene and to maintain adequate urinary elimination. RESPONSIBLE PERSONNEL: RN, LPN, HHA EQUIPMENT: Soap, water, basin, clean towel and washcloth, non-allergic tape, Chux or waterproof pads if care is performed in bed SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS: The patient or caregiver should be instructed regarding rationale of catheter care. Warm soapy water is usually used. In individual cases, a special solution may be ordered by the physician. Ambulatory patients may prefer to perform this task independently in the bathroom. Adaptation of the area for special equipment may be indicated. The perineal area should be examined for evidence of irritation or inflammation. Increased swelling, blood, or the presence of discharge and odor should be reported. Check the tubing and positioning of tubing for kinks and ensure that the drainage bag is below the level of the bladder. PROCEDURE: 1. Explain procedure to patient and assemble equipment. 2. Screen patient for privacy. 3. Wash hands and don disposable gloves. 4. Position patient properly: a. Female – lying on back with knees slightly flexed, thighs spread widely as comfortable. b. Male – with legs extended, knees slightly flexed, thighs slightly separated. 5. Perform catheter care: a. For Female: (1) Expose the perineum and catheter. (2) To cleanse the perineal area, separate the labia and clean from front to back with soap and water. Do not pull on catheter. (3) Using a soapy rag, clean the entire rubber length of the catheter, starting at the meatus and going outward toward the bag and tubing. (4) Rinse soap from the perineum and dry thoroughly. (5) Secure the drainage tube with non-allergic tape to the inner thigh, leaving some slack in the tubing. (6) Remove gloves and wash hands. (7) Store equipment.