Urinary catheters are used to drain urine from the body when the bladder cannot due to surgery or illness. Urinary catheters drain the bladder, and the urine is collected in a urinary drainage bag. This bag should be emptied when it is about a third to half full, according to Medline Plus, a service of the National Library of Medicine. Neglecting to empty the drainage bag could result in urine leaking onto the floor, clothing or bedding.
Step 1
Wash hands with soap. Rinse and dry thoroughly. You may wear latex gloves.
Step 2
Position the urinary drainage bag below the bladder and make sure there are no kinks in the tubing. Hold the spigot on the urinary bag over a container or toilet.
Step 3
Open the spigot valve on the urinary bag and empty the bag and tubing completely.
Step 4
Close the spigot tightly. Clean the tip of the spigot with an alcohol pad to prevent infection.
Step 5
Return the urinary drainage bag to its permanent position on the bed frame or wheelchair, or strapped onto the thigh if using a leg bag. Never place the drainage bag on the floor.
Step 6
Discard alcohol pad. Immediately dry urine spills or splatters.
Step 7
Remove gloves if worn, and wash hands again.
Tips and Warnings
- Urinary drainage bags should be changed about once a month.
- Always check the appearance of the urine. If it becomes cloudy, changes from a yellow to an amber color, or if any blood or mucous is in the urine, contact a physician.
Things You'll Need
- Soap
- Alcohol swabs
- Container (optional)
- Latex gloves (optional)
