Should a catheter bag be left on once person can void himself as I believe it do more damage and stop him from going back to normal urining himself?

Whether to leave a catheter bag on once a person can void himself depends on several factors and should be determined by a healthcare professional. Here are some considerations:

1. Urinary Retention: If the person has difficulty emptying their bladder completely (urinary retention), leaving the catheter bag in place may be necessary to avoid over-distension of the bladder, which can cause damage to the bladder muscles.

2. Incomplete Bladder Emptying: If the person is unable to empty their bladder fully without the catheter, keeping the catheter in place helps ensure adequate bladder drainage and prevent urinary tract infections (UTIs).

3. Post-Operative Care: In some cases, after certain surgeries or medical procedures, a catheter may be left in place temporarily to monitor urine output and facilitate healing.

4. Urethral Stricture: If the person has a urethral stricture (narrowing of the urethra), the catheter may be needed to bypass the obstruction and allow urine to flow freely.

5. Patient Comfort: If the person experiences discomfort or pain when urinating, the catheter bag can provide relief by ensuring continuous drainage.

6. Mobility and Independence: If the person has limited mobility or is unable to ambulate independently, the catheter bag may offer convenience and prevent accidents.

While there is a concern that prolonged catheterization can lead to catheter-associated urinary tract infections (CAUTIs) and other complications, the healthcare team will take appropriate measures to minimize these risks, such as maintaining sterile technique, proper catheter care, and regular monitoring.

Therefore, the decision to leave a catheter bag on or remove it should be made in consultation with a healthcare professional considering the individual's specific medical condition, recovery progress, and overall well-being. This helps balance the potential risks and benefits and aims for the best possible outcome for the patient.