Policy Manual sample

MDT Home Health Care Agency, Inc. 27 CATHETER CARE-SUPRAPUBIC CATHETER PURPOSE: All instruction relative to the care of the suprapubic catheter must be done in accordance with specific physician's orders. A suprapubic catheter is placed by the physician to drain urine directly from the bladder diverting it from the urethra. Conditions which indicate the use of a suprapubic catheter are urethral constriction, tumor growth, neurogenic bladder, gynecological procedures or bladder surgery. RESPONSIBLE PERSONNEL : RN, LPN EQUIPMENT: Gloves, Dressing supplies as ordered by physician SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS: Proper care of the suprapubic catheter will ensure adequate drainage of the bladder, assist in maintaining skin integrity and decrease the possibility of urinary tract infections. If a dressing is used, it should be changed according to physician’s orders or every 24 hours and when it is wet. Caregiver must be taught dressing change technique. Practice time and return demonstration are indicated. PROCEDURE: 1 . Explain procedure to patient or caregiver. 2. Position patient in supine position with knees slightly flexed. 3. Place Chux or barrier beneath thighs as indicated. 4. Lift garments to expose abdomen and fold bedcovers to mid-thigh area. 5. If the patient is confused, get assistance from a family member, to keep from contaminating work area. 6. Wash hands thoroughly. 7. Open a plastic disposal bag. 8. Put on disposable gloves. 9. Remove and discard soiled dressing. 10. Discard soiled gloves into plastic bag. 11. Wash hands. Don gloves and perform dressing change as ordered by physician. 16. Remove gloves and discard in plastic bag. 17. Wash hands. 18. Dispose of soiled dressing materials. DOCUMENTATION: Document the color and amount of drainage and the condition of the skin. Document the process of cleaning, the solution used and description of the dressing on the Clinical Visit Note. Document all teaching and the patient or caregiver response to teaching.