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Registration Number: {{org_field_registration_no}}

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Catheter Care Policy

1. Purpose

This policy ensures that catheter care at {{org_field_name}} is managed safely, effectively, and in compliance with CQC Fundamental Standards, the Health and Social Care Act 2008 (Regulated Activities) Regulations 2014, NICE Guidelines, and Infection Prevention and Control Regulations. Catheter care must be delivered in a way that maintains the dignity, comfort, and health of people we support while minimising infection risks and complications.

2. Scope

This policy applies to all staff involved in the assessment, insertion, maintenance, monitoring, and removal of urinary catheters. It includes guidance on infection prevention, documentation, staff training, and person-centred approaches to catheter care.

3. Related Policies

• Infection Prevention and Control Policy (CH17)
• Safe Care and Treatment Policy (CH11)
• Risk Management and Assessment Policy (CH18)
• Person-Centred Care Policy (CH07)
• Confidentiality and Data Protection Policy (CH34)

4. Policy Statement

{{org_field_name}} is committed to ensuring that catheter care is carried out safely, with respect for individual dignity, and in line with best practice guidelines. We aim to prevent catheter-associated urinary tract infections (CAUTIs), ensure optimal hygiene, and support people to maintain as much independence as possible.

5. Indications for Catheterisation

A catheter should only be used when clinically necessary and prescribed by a healthcare professional. Common indications include:

• Acute or chronic urinary retention.
• Management of bladder dysfunction due to neurological conditions.
• Monitoring of urinary output in critically ill individuals.
• Support for individuals with severe mobility limitations.
• End-of-life care to improve comfort.

6. Types of Catheters and Selection

The type of catheter used should be based on individual needs and medical advice:

• Intermittent catheters – used for short-term or temporary catheterisation.
• Indwelling catheters – either urethral or suprapubic, requiring regular monitoring and care.
• Condom catheters – non-invasive options for male individuals where appropriate.

7. Catheter Insertion and Initial Care

• Catheter insertion must be performed only by a trained healthcare professional.
• Aseptic technique must be used to prevent infection.
• The individual must be fully informed and give consent before insertion.
• The correct catheter size and type should be chosen to minimise discomfort and reduce complications.
• A detailed record must be made in the individual’s care plan, including the reason for catheterisation, type, and insertion date.

8. Ongoing Catheter Maintenance

• Catheter care must be person-centred, ensuring the comfort and dignity of people we support.
• The catheter site should be cleaned daily using warm water and mild soap.
• The drainage bag should be kept below bladder level to prevent backflow and infection.
• Staff must check for signs of blockages, leakage, or infection, including pain, fever, or cloudy urine.
• Individuals should be encouraged to drink sufficient fluids to promote urinary health.

9. Preventing and Managing Catheter-Associated Urinary Tract Infections (CAUTIs)

• Strict hand hygiene must be followed before and after handling a catheter.
• Avoid unnecessary catheter use to reduce the risk of infection.
• Encourage regular emptying of the drainage bag to prevent stagnation.
• Staff must monitor and record any symptoms of infection, including:
  • Fever, chills, or back pain.
  • Increased bladder discomfort.
  • Cloudy or foul-smelling urine.
  • Blood in the urine (haematuria).
• If an infection is suspected, staff must report it immediately and seek medical advice.

10. Catheter Changes and Removal

• Routine catheter changes should follow the prescribed schedule (e.g., every 4-12 weeks for long-term catheters).
• Unscheduled changes should occur if:
  • The catheter is blocked or leaking.
  • The individual experiences persistent pain or discomfort.
• Where appropriate, catheter removal should be encouraged, and bladder retraining initiated.
• All catheter changes or removals must be documented in the care plan.

11. Documentation and Record Keeping

• Each individual with a catheter must have a detailed care plan outlining:
  • The reason for catheterisation.
  • Type and size of catheter used.
  • Date of insertion and planned removal or change date.
  • Any observed issues, including infection symptoms or discomfort.
  • Fluid intake and output monitoring where necessary.
• Any deviation from the care plan must be recorded and reported.

12. Person-Centred Approach and Dignity in Catheter Care

• People we support must be involved in decisions about their catheter care whenever possible.
• Privacy and dignity must be respected at all times during catheter care procedures.
• Staff should encourage individuals to maintain independence in their catheter care if they are able.
• Alternative continence support options should be explored where appropriate.

13. Training and Staff Responsibilities

• All staff involved in catheter care must complete specialist catheter training.
• Staff must be competent in:
  • Aseptic techniques and infection control measures.
  • Recognising and managing catheter-related complications.
  • Supporting individuals with dignity and sensitivity.
• The Registered Manager is responsible for ensuring compliance with catheter care guidelines and staff competency.

14. Emergency Situations and Escalation Procedures

• Staff must recognise and respond to catheter-related emergencies, including:
  • Blocked or dislodged catheters causing severe pain or urinary retention.
  • Acute infections with high fever or sepsis risk.
  • Severe bleeding from the urinary tract.
• In any urgent case, staff must seek immediate medical attention and document the incident.

15. Quality Assurance and Compliance Monitoring

• Regular audits of catheter care practices will be conducted to ensure compliance with best practices.
• Feedback from people we support and their families will be actively sought to improve catheter care procedures.
• Non-compliance will be addressed through additional training, performance monitoring, and corrective action where necessary.

16. Policy Review

This policy will be reviewed annually or sooner if changes in CQC regulations, NICE Guidelines, or operational needs require an update.

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Responsible Person: {{org_field_registered_manager_first_name}} {{org_field_registered_manager_last_name}}
Reviewed on: {{last_update_date}}
Next Review Date: {{next_review_date}}
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