Latex Free.  Suitable for male or female catheterization. Smooth tip, comfort eyes and funnel end.  Radiopaque.  


EIGHT STEPS TO PREVENTING CATHETER ASSOCIATED URINARY TRACT INFECTION:

Handwashing. This remains the single most important step in preventing the spread of infection. Hands should be cleansed immediately before
and after any contact with or manipulation of the catheter site, tubing, or drainage bag.

Catheterize only when necessary. Acute urinary retention or obstruction and the need to observe urinary output are the most common reasons for
Foley catheterization in hospitals. Most in-house catheters are initially placed in the operating room or emergency department. Review your facility’s
policies to determine if they clearly state indications for catheter placement and call for removal as soon as clinically appropriate. Other methods of urinary
drainage (intermittent catheters or male external catheters) should be used whenever possible. Be sure to maintain appropriate documentation and communication when patients are transferred.

Aseptic preparation and insertion. In addition to diligent handwashing, sterile technique should be followed when inserting the catheter. Check for Foley balloon patency and apply lubricating jelly to the tip of the catheter prior to prepping the skin. Once a sterile-gloved hand touches the patient’s skin, it should be considered contaminated. Any sterile equipment that contacts the patient should not re-enter the sterile field.

Closed system. The catheter should remain connected to the closed drainage system. Breaking the connection can create an entry point for bacteria. Empty the drainage bag regularly, taking care not to touch the spigot to the nonsterile collecting container.

Good drainage. Remember “Bag Below the Bladder” so gravity drains urine away from the bladder. Keep the tubing as straight as possible, and avoid kinking or compression. To avoid urine reflux and saturation of the vent, a drainage bag should not be left horizontal on any flat surface, especially face-down.

Smallest catheter possible. To minimize urethral trauma, use the smallest catheter that also allows for good drainage.

Secure the catheter. To prevent movement of the catheter and decrease the risk of bleeding, trauma, necrosis, and bladder spasms from pressure and traction, the catheter should be secured to the patient’s thigh or abdomen after insertion.

Perineal cleansing. A regular meatal cleansing regimen is not recommended for UTI prevention. However, daily perineal skin care is still important. Take extra care in cleaning patients after every incontinent stool episode.