Trouble Shooting

You look after yourself and keep-up good catheter hygiene to avoid catheter related issues but how do you trouble shoot when things go wrong? 

Here are some tips on how to resolve those situations.

No Urine Draining — intermittent catheter

If urine is not draining after inserting an intermittent catheter, try coughing to help start the flow of urine.

Check you have inserted the catheter correctly into the urethra.

Blocked Catheter

If you have an indwelling catheter, check there are no kinks in the drainage bag tubing or that the leg bag straps aren’t blocking the flow. Make sure the bag is below your bladder when you are lying, sitting or standing.

If you still can’t get the urine to flow, see your doctor. The catheter may have to be flushed or replaced. Use clean towels or pads to keep yourself dry while you wait to see a healthcare professional.

If you have a full bladder or are in discomfort, you will need to go to a hospital emergency department for treatment.

Catheter Leakage

Sometimes urine can bypass the catheter and leak out. This can happen if the catheter is not placed properly. It can also be caused by:

•          constipation

•          bladder muscle spasms (sudden, involuntary contractions of the bladder muscle)

•          a blocked catheter

Seek advice from your doctor or continence advisor if you have catheter leakage.

Catheter Fallen Out

If you have an indwelling urinary catheter and it falls out, call your doctor or nurse immediately or go to a hospital emergency department for treatment.

Infection

Symptoms that may mean you have a urinary tract infection (UTI) include:

•          cloudy or strong-smelling urine

•          a burning feeling around the catheter, or itching or soreness

•          blood in your urine

•          abdominal (stomach) pain

You may also feel unwell, have a fever or have discomfort in your lower back or around your sides.

Seek medical treatment straight away if you suspect you have a urinary tract infection (UTI). If you have an infection, you may need antibiotics. It’s also usually a good idea to drink more water, to flush the bacteria away.

When should I see my doctor?

Always seek medical advice if you notice any blood in your urine or have symptoms of a urinary tract infection.