Urinary Catheter Irrigation

Urinary Catheter Irrigation Policy 

Purpose 

To ensure urinary catheter irrigations are performed safely and effectively using sterile techniques, as ordered by a physician. 

Policy 

Urinary catheter irrigations will be done using sterile technique and only when ordered by the physician. 

Procedure 

I. Preparation: 

• Verify the physician's order for the solution, amount, frequency, and reason for irrigation. 

• Explain the procedure to the resident and provide privacy. 

• Gather all necessary equipment and supplies. 

II. Equipment: 

• Sterile irrigation set (syringe and tubing) 

• Prescribed sterile irrigation solution 

• Alcohol swabs 

• Sterile gloves 

• Sterile drape 

• Sterile cap for catheter and tubing ends 

III. Procedure Steps: 

1. Hand Hygiene: 

• Wash hands thoroughly or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. 

2. Establish Sterile Field: 

• Set up a sterile field and open the irrigation set and other equipment as needed. 

3. Apply Sterile Gloves: 

• Put on sterile gloves to maintain sterility throughout the procedure. 

4. Disconnect Drainage Tubing: 

• Carefully disconnect the drainage tubing from the urinary catheter. 

• Wipe the ends of the catheter and tubing with an alcohol swab. 

• Cover the exposed ends with a sterile cap to maintain sterility. 

5. Instill Sterile Solution: 

• Using the sterile syringe, draw up the prescribed amount of sterile irrigation solution. 

• Attach the syringe to the catheter and gently instill the solution as ordered. 

6. Allow Solution to Flow Back: 

• Reconnect the tubing to the catheter. 

• Allow the solution to flow back by gravity into the drainage bag. 

7. Complete Procedure: 

• Remove and discard gloves in an appropriate waste container. 

• Wash hands thoroughly or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. 

IV. Documentation: 

• Document the irrigation procedure in the treatment record, including the date, time, solution used, amount instilled, and any observations. 

• Describe the color and consistency of returns in the Nurses Notes. 

• Note any adverse reactions or complications and notify the physician if necessary. 

References 

• Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), Requirements of Participation for Long-Term Care Facilities. 

• State Operations Manual (SOM), CMS.