Removing an Indwelling Catheter

Goal: The catheter is removed without difficulty and with minimal patient discomfort.

1. Confirm the order for catheter removal in the medical record.

2. Bring necessary equipment to the bedside.

3. Perform hand hygiene and put on PPE, if indicated.

4. Identify the patient.

5. Close curtains around the bed and close the door to the room, if possible. Discuss the procedure with the patient and assess the patient’s ability to assist with the procedure.

6. Adjust bed to comfortable working height, usually elbow height of the caregiver (VISN 8 Patient Safety Center, 2009). Stand on the patient’s right side if you are righthanded, patient’s left side if you are left-handed.

7. Position the patient as for catheter insertion. Drape the patient so that only the area around the catheter is exposed. Slide waterproof pad between the female patient’s legs or over the male patient’s thighs.

8. Remove the leg strap, tape, or other device used to secure the catheter to the patient’s thigh or abdomen.

9. Insert the syringe into the balloon inflation port. Allow water to come back by gravity (Mercer Smith, 2003). Alternately, aspirate the entire amount of sterile water used to inflate the balloon. Refer to manufacturer’s instructions for deflation. Do not cut the inflation port.

10. Ask the patient to take several slow deep breaths. Slowly and gently remove the catheter. Place it on the waterproof pad and wrap it in the pad.

11. Wash and dry the perineal area, as needed.

12. Remove gloves. Assist the patient to a comfortable position. Cover the patient with bed linens. Place the bed in the lowest position.

13. Put on clean gloves. Remove equipment and dispose of it according to facility policy. Note characteristics and amount of urine in drainage bag.

14. Remove gloves and additional PPE, if used. Perform hand hygiene.