What are the nursing responsibilities in introducing Indwelling folley catheter?

Introducing an indwelling Foley catheter requires careful attention to asepsis, patient comfort, and proper procedure to prevent complications. Here are the key nursing responsibilities involved in introducing an indwelling Foley catheter:

1. Assessment:

- Assess the patient's medical history, current condition, and urinary elimination patterns.

- Evaluate the patient's level of consciousness, cognitive function, and ability to cooperate.

- Check for any allergies to latex or other materials used in the catheterization procedure.

2. Preparation:

- Obtain the appropriate size and type of Foley catheter based on the patient's condition.

- Gather necessary supplies, including sterile gloves, lubricant, antiseptic solution, urinary drainage bag, and a catheter kit.

- Ensure patient privacy and explain the procedure clearly to gain informed consent.

3. Hand Hygiene and Asepsis:

- Perform hand hygiene and wear sterile gloves before proceeding with the catheterization procedure.

- Maintain aseptic technique throughout the procedure to prevent introducing infection.

4. Positioning:

- Assist the patient into a comfortable supine position, exposing the perineal area.

- For female patients, ensure the patient's knees are slightly flexed and abducted to facilitate catheter insertion.

5. Cleaning and Sterilization:

- Thoroughly cleanse the perineal area and urethral opening with antiseptic solution using sterile cotton balls.

- Allow the area to dry completely before proceeding.

6. Catheter Insertion:

- Holding the catheter with the dominant hand, gently insert the lubricated tip into the external urethral opening.

- Advance the catheter gently until urine begins to flow, indicating successful insertion into the bladder.

- Inflate the balloon with sterile water or saline according to the manufacturer's recommendations.

7. Securing the Catheter:

- Gently pull the catheter back slightly until the balloon rests firmly against the bladder neck.

- Secure the catheter to the patient's leg using adhesive tape or specialized fixation devices to prevent accidental displacement.

8. Attaching the Drainage Bag:

- Connect the drainage bag to the catheter securely to allow for proper urine collection.

- Ensure the drainage bag is positioned lower than the bladder to facilitate urine flow and prevent backflow.

9. Patient Comfort and Education:

- Reassure the patient that the procedure is complete and provide a comfortable position.

- Encourage fluid intake to maintain urine output and prevent complications.

- Educate the patient and their caregivers about catheter care, hygiene practices, and signs of potential complications.

10. Documentation:

- Document the catheterization procedure, including the catheter size, time of insertion, amount of balloon inflation, and any relevant observations or complications.

11. Ongoing Monitoring:

- Routinely monitor the patient for signs of urinary tract infection (UTI), such as fever, flank pain, cloudy or foul-smelling urine, and increased or decreased urine output.

- Regularly observe the catheter insertion site for signs of skin irritation, bleeding, or leakage.

By following these nursing responsibilities, healthcare professionals can ensure the safe and effective introduction of an indwelling Foley catheter, promoting patient comfort, preventing complications, and maintaining urinary system health.