Urinary Catheter Care Flashcards

What is the primary purpose of an indwelling urinary (Foley) catheter?

Answer: To continuously drain urine from the bladder

An indwelling Foley catheter is inserted into the bladder to continuously drain urine, used for patients who cannot void on their own.

Where should the urinary drainage bag always be positioned relative to the patient's bladder?

Answer: Below the level of the bladder

The drainage bag must be kept below bladder level to allow gravity to drain urine and prevent backflow that could cause infection.

How often should routine perineal catheter care typically be performed?

Answer: At least once per shift or as needed

Catheter care should be performed at least once per shift and whenever soiled to reduce the risk of catheter-associated urinary tract infection (CAUTI).

What is the typical balloon inflation volume for a standard adult Foley catheter?

Answer: 5–10 mL of sterile water

Most adult Foley catheters use 5–10 mL of sterile water to inflate the retention balloon, which anchors the catheter inside the bladder.

When inserting a urinary catheter, which principle is most important to maintain throughout the procedure?

Answer: Maintain a sterile field throughout the entire procedure

Strict sterile technique must be maintained throughout catheterization to prevent introducing bacteria into the bladder and causing infection.

What does CAUTI stand for?

Answer: Catheter-Associated Urinary Tract Infection

CAUTI stands for Catheter-Associated Urinary Tract Infection, the most common healthcare-associated infection linked to urinary catheters.

Which finding suggests that a urinary catheter may be obstructed?

Answer: Patient reports bladder fullness or discomfort with little or no drainage

Bladder fullness or discomfort accompanied by absent or minimal drainage indicates a possible catheter obstruction requiring prompt intervention.