An indwelling catheter is a thin tube placed in the bladder to drain urine when it cannot be emptied naturally. It can be temporary or permanent and is commonly used after surgery, injury, or for people managing long-term continence conditions.

Properly caring for a catheter helps prevent infection, discomfort and blockages. With the right guidance and support, catheter care becomes a simple part of daily routine rather than a source of stress.

At Continence with Care, our experienced catheter nurses provide professional support and education so individuals and carers can feel confident in safely managing catheters at home.

Daily catheter care at home

Keeping your catheter clean and functioning well does not have to be complicated. A few simple habits make a big difference to comfort and health.

1. Keep the area clean and dry.
   Gently wash the skin around the catheter each day with mild soap and warm water. Pat dry with a clean towel. Avoid using powders, creams, or wipes unless your nurse has advised otherwise.

2. Handle your catheter with clean hands.
   Always wash your hands before and after touching the catheter or drainage bag. This reduces bacteria and lowers infection risk.

3. Check the drainage bag regularly.
   Empty the bag when it is two-thirds full to avoid pulling or leaking. Keep the bag below the level of your bladder but off the floor to allow proper drainage.

4. Drink plenty of fluids.
   Staying hydrated helps keep urine clear and prevents blockages. Your nurse can suggest the right fluid intake based on your health needs.

Preventing problems

Good catheter care is as much about prevention as it is about maintenance. Paying attention to small changes can prevent problems before they become serious.

Watch for signs such as:

• Pain or discomfort around the bladder or lower abdomen

• Cloudy, dark, or strong-smelling urine

• Leaks, blockage, or reduced urine flow

• Redness or swelling around the catheter site

• Fever or chills
  

If you notice any of these symptoms, contact your catheter nurse or healthcare provider as soon as possible. Early attention can prevent infection and reduce the need for emergency care.

Suprapubic catheters and changes

Some people have a suprapubic catheter, which is inserted through the lower abdomen rather than the urethra. Care for these catheters is similar but may involve extra attention to the insertion site.

Your continence nurse can safely perform suprapubic catheter changes and advise you on caring for the surrounding skin at home. Regular reviews help keep the area healthy and ensure the catheter continues to work properly.

When to seek professional help

Even with good daily care, catheters sometimes need professional attention. You should contact a catheter nurse or healthcare provider if you notice:

• No urine draining for more than two hours

• Persistent pain or leaking around the catheter

• Signs of infection or fever

• A dislodged or broken catheter

Never try to remove or replace a catheter yourself unless specifically trained to do so. Your nurse can provide prompt support and arrange a catheter change service if required.

Caring with confidence

Learning to manage an indwelling catheter takes patience and practice, but you are not alone. With the right information and professional guidance, most people find that it becomes a manageable part of daily life.

At Continence with Care, we focus on making catheter management simple, safe and supportive. Whether you need regular home visits, telehealth guidance, or education for carers, our team is here to help you feel confident and cared for.