Emptying a catheter bag

If a catheter is left in the bladder to drain urine continuously, the urine will pass through a closed circuit and be stored in a sterile drainage bag until the client or nurse empties it.

Equipment:
Gloves
Apron
Clean measuring jug
Chlorhexidine or other wipes (see local policy)
Paper towel

Each time a catheter bag is emptied the closed system is disrupted. The more times this is done, the greater the risk of infection. The bag should therefore only be emptied when necessary, to reduce this risk. However, if the catheter bags are allowed to fill to capacity they can become very heavy and increase the drag factor for the client – that is, the pressure on the bladder neck should the bag inadvertently be dropped or allowed to pull. The interval between emptying a catheter bag therefore needs to be assessed on an individual basis.

Procedure	Rationale
Explain the procedure to the client	To obtain consent, gain co-operation and teach the client how to do this themselves if able
Wash hands, put on gloves and cover clothing with plastic apron	To minimize the risk of cross-infection
Clean the outlet portal according to local policy and allow to dry	To minimize the risk of cross-infection
Place the measuring jug below the outlet and release the tap	To prevent spillage
Once all the urine has drained, dry the outlet, wipe with a clean wipe and cover the container with the paper towel	To minimize infection risk
Remove to sluice and observe drainage. Note colour, smell, etc. as detailed in section ‘Monitoring urinary output’ below; measure the amount if required; and then dispose of the contents in the sluice or toilet	To monitor output and reduce the risk of contamination
Remove gloves and apron, and wash hands	To minimize the risk of cross-infection
Record findings in client’s care records as appropriate and report any abnormalities	To maintain records, facilitate good communications and ensure that the client receives any necessary care and treatment