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Intermittent Catheterization Guide for Pediatric Females: Types and Instructions
Intermittent catheterization is an essential procedure for many pediatric females. This guide explains what an intermittent catheter is, the types available for women and girls, and provides step-by-step instructions for proper use.
What is an Intermittent Catheter?
An intermittent catheter is a flexible tube used to drain urine from the bladder at regular intervals. For pediatric females, these catheters are designed to be gentle and easy to use, allowing for safe and comfortable bladder management.
Before you begin, gather your supplies:
Catheter in sealed wrapper
Lubricant if not using a hydrophilic catheter
Handwashing materials
Collection device if not cathing while sitting on or near a toilet
1. Thoroughly wash hands with soap and water or use an antibacterial hand cleaner.
2. Lay out the supplies so they are within easy reach.
3. Position yourself in comfortable position on the toilet or in your wheelchair with your legs spread apart.
4. Prepare the catheter:
a. Hydrophilic catheter: If your catheter has water sachet inside, before opening, squeeze the packet in half inside the outer package until the liquid bursts open. Tilt outer package back and forth or let sit for 30 seconds if necessary (follow specific manufacturer directions on packaging). Open outer package and remove new lubricated catheter.
b. If using lubricant, open catheter and remove from package. Apply generous amount of lubricant to the tip and first several inches of the catheter.
5. Using your non-dominant hand, separate the labia with two fingers to locate the urethra. With the labia separated, wash the urethral area from front to back with a towelette. Never go back and forth over the urethral opening.
6. With your dominant hand, insert the catheter gently into the urethral opening, inserting until urine begins to flow.
7. Hold the catheter in place until the urine stops flowing, completely emptying the bladder.
8. When urine stops flowing, slowly rotate the catheter between your fingers while withdrawing the catheter.
9. Properly dispose of the catheter and used materials. Wash your hands.