Indwelling Suprapubic Catheter

Equipment:

Use size 16Ch or 18Ch Catheters (some people have a size 20Ch or 22Ch)
Use Hydrogel coated latex catheters or 100% silicone catheters. (100% silicone catheters are more difficult to remove than hydrogel coated latex catheters)
NB if you have a latex allergy use 100% silicone catheters
If you have frequent urinary tract infections (UTI) you may benefit from using a silver coated catheter (seek advice)
Secure the catheter tubing to the lower abdomen and thigh to prevent ‘tugging’ of the catheter. Seek advice about appliances for this
Change the catheter every 6-8 weeks
Drink 2-3 litres of fluids per day
If able, use a catheter valve to maintain bladder tone and capacity. Seek advice if you would like to use a catheter valve
Overnight attach a night bag (2 litre capacity) to your leg bag
Bladder washout solutions or instillations may be used to wash out your bladder if your catheter consistently blocks with encrustations and requires frequent changes
Solutions used vary from saline to acidic solutions. Frequency of use depends on frequency of catheter blocks
Warm the solution prior to use to reduce discomfort and spasm
NB Do not use acidic solutions more frequently than once a week as they can irritate the bladder lining

Urinary tract infections (UTI): drink 2-3 litres of fluid per day. Try to avoid taking antibiotics if possible. Seek medical advice if persistent
Catheter blocks: use bladder washouts as advised, seek medical advice if persistent
Urine leakage from below (urethra): seek advice
Bladder, kidney stones: use bladder washouts as advised, seek medical advice
Over granulation and/or discharge from the catheter site: ensure site is kept clean, and a dressing applied if necessary. Seek advice
Chronic bladder infections: seek medical advice
Bleeding: if you have bleeding around the site of the catheter (trauma), and/or pink/red coloured urine (haematuria) seek medical advice