Table 1.

Basic Catheter Self-Management

Stay aware. Having a catheter requires that you stay aware of your body and how you feel.

Drink more water than any other beverage! Limit coffee, and consider substituting tea and decaffeinated beverages. Drink consistently. Fluid intake needs to be at a good level for your weight and you need to drink in a consistent way to help prevent catheter blockage. Your body needs fluids. Most people need 2,000 to 3,000 cc of fluid a day. For instance, a 150-lb person would need 2,550 cc that is equivalent to about 10.5 glasses per day. More fluids are needed for hot weather or when exercising. My fluid goal is ______. Pay attention to the color of your urine. It should be light yellow all day long. The color of urine can be used a quick way to know whether you are drinking enough during the day. Notice changes. If the urine color changes, notice if you are doing something different, such as drinking less water or more caffeinated beverages or are using a diuretic medicine or water pill, such as furosemide or chlorothiazide. Notice catheter position. Notice where the catheter is after each change in your position and reposition it if needed. If you have others who help you, teach them to do this. Check for kinks and twists in the catheter by feeling with your hand from where the catheter leaves your body all the way to the drainage bag. Ask for help. If you need assistance with the catheter, learn to ask for help.