Cleaning the Suprapubic Catheter Site: Step-by-Step Instructions

Cleaning the site of a suprapubic catheter is an essential part of catheter care to prevent infection and maintain proper hygiene. Here are step-by-step instructions on how to clean a suprapubic catheter site:

Before You Begin:

1. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds. Use disposable paper towels to dry your hands.

Cleaning the Suprapubic Catheter Site:

1. Gather your supplies: You will need clean, sterile equipment. This typically includes sterile saline solution, sterile gauze pads, and clean gloves.

2. Put on disposable gloves to maintain aseptic conditions.

3. Position the person: Ensure that the patient is comfortably positioned, either lying down or sitting. You may need to place a waterproof pad or towels under the catheter site to catch any spilled fluids.

4. Examine the catheter site: Carefully inspect the area around the catheter for any signs of redness, swelling, discharge, or infection. If you notice any concerning changes, inform the healthcare provider.

5. Open a sterile saline solution and sterile gauze pad.

6. Wet the sterile gauze pad with the saline solution. Make sure the gauze is damp but not dripping wet.

7. Gently clean the catheter site: Starting from the entry point of the catheter and moving outward, gently clean the skin around the catheter in a circular motion. Use a different section of the gauze pad for each stroke to avoid cross-contamination. Continue this process until you've thoroughly cleaned the entire site.

8. Dispose of the used gauze pad in a lined waste receptacle.

9. Inspect the catheter site again: After cleaning, check the site for any remaining debris or signs of infection. It should be clean and free from visible discharge.

10. Apply a clean dressing (if required): Depending on the healthcare provider's instructions, you may need to apply a sterile dressing over the catheter site. Ensure that the dressing is secure but not too tight.

11. Remove your gloves and dispose of them in the waste receptacle.

12. Wash your hands again: Thoroughly wash your hands with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds. Use disposable paper towels to dry your hands.

Note: The frequency of catheter site cleaning and the specific products used may vary based on the healthcare provider's recommendations. Always follow the care instructions provided by the healthcare team or the patient's physician. If you notice any signs of infection, inflammation, or unusual changes at the catheter site, contact the healthcare provider for guidance.