General Nursing (RGN)
Urinary Catheterization
Insertion and care of a urinary catheter within the nurse's scope, competence and applicable institutional protocol.
Purpose
- Provide appropriate urinary drainage when indicated.
- Maintain patient comfort and safety.
- Prevent avoidable catheter-associated complications.
- Monitor urinary output when clinically required.
Indications
- Clinical indication for urinary drainage.
- Urinary retention where catheterization is indicated.
- Other approved indications according to clinical protocol.
Equipment
- Appropriate catheter
- Sterile or appropriate catheterization equipment
- Lubricant
- Drainage system
- Personal protective equipment
- Waste receptacle
Procedure steps
- Verify the indication and relevant order or protocol.
- Explain the procedure and obtain cooperation.
- Provide privacy and appropriate positioning.
- Perform hand hygiene and prepare equipment.
- Use appropriate aseptic technique.
- Prepare the urethral area according to protocol.
- Insert the catheter using appropriate technique.
- Secure and connect the drainage system appropriately.
- Ensure free drainage and patient comfort.
- Dispose of waste, perform hand hygiene and document the procedure.
Precautions
- Follow institutional catheterization protocol.
- Maintain appropriate aseptic technique.
- Do not force catheter insertion.
- Use the correct catheter and equipment.
- Monitor for complications and report abnormalities.
Educational resource only. Follow current Nursing and Midwifery Council guidance, local institutional protocols, scope of practice, and clinical supervision.
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