DCW64-Catheter Care Policy
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Registration Number: {{org_field_registration_no}}
Catheter Care Policy
1. Purpose
The purpose of this policy is to ensure that {{org_field_name}} provides safe, dignified, and effective catheter care for service users requiring catheterisation as part of their care plan. This policy outlines how our organisation meets Care Inspectorate Wales (CIW) regulations, best practice guidelines, and infection prevention standards to promote comfort, maintain hygiene, and prevent catheter-related complications.
Our objectives are to:
- Ensure safe and appropriate catheter care to reduce the risk of infections and complications.
- Support service users’ dignity, privacy, and independence while managing catheters.
- Ensure staff are trained in catheter care best practices, including infection control.
- Monitor catheter use regularly and escalate any concerns to healthcare professionals.
- Work collaboratively with district nurses, GPs, and other healthcare providers.
2. Scope
This policy applies to:
- Service users with urinary catheters receiving domiciliary care from {{org_field_name}}.
- Care workers, supervisors, and administrative staff responsible for supporting catheter care.
- The Registered Manager and Responsible Individual, ensuring policy implementation and compliance.
- Healthcare professionals, including district nurses and urology specialists.
- Families and carers involved in catheter care planning and support.
3. Legal and Regulatory Framework
This policy aligns with:
- The Regulation and Inspection of Social Care (Wales) Act 2016, ensuring high standards of care.
- The Regulated Services (Service Providers and Responsible Individuals) (Wales) Regulations 2017, which mandate safe and effective catheter management.
- The Social Services and Well-being (Wales) Act 2014, promoting dignity, person-centred care, and independence.
- The Health and Safety at Work Act 1974, ensuring safe practices in personal care delivery.
- The Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) Guidelines, minimising the risk of catheter-associated infections.
- NICE Guidelines on Urinary Catheterisation, ensuring best practice catheter care.
4. Types of Catheters Supported
4.1 Indwelling (Foley) Catheters
A tube inserted into the bladder via the urethra or abdomen (suprapubic) to drain urine continuously.
4.2 Intermittent Catheters
A temporary catheter inserted at intervals to empty the bladder before removal.
4.3 Suprapubic Catheters
A catheter inserted through a small abdominal incision for long-term bladder drainage.
5. Initial Assessment and Individualised Care Planning
Upon admission, each service user requiring catheter care will have a detailed assessment and an individualised care plan developed in collaboration with healthcare professionals.
5.1 Catheter Care Plan Includes:
- Reason for catheterisation and type of catheter used.
- Frequency of catheter changes and required healthcare support.
- Specific hygiene, positioning, and fluid intake needs.
- Signs of infection or complications to monitor.
- Emergency procedures for catheter blockages, leaks, or dislodgements.
How we manage this efficiently:
- Digital records store catheter care plans, ensuring real-time updates for care staff.
- Regular care plan reviews with district nurses to adjust care as needed.
- A named key worker ensures consistent care and communication with healthcare teams.
6. Infection Prevention and Control in Catheter Care
6.1 Hand Hygiene and Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
- Staff must wash hands before and after handling a catheter using antimicrobial soap.
- Gloves and aprons must be worn during catheter-related procedures.
- All PPE must be disposed of properly after use.
6.2 Catheter Hygiene and Cleaning Protocols
- Daily hygiene around the catheter site, using warm water and a clean cloth.
- Avoid using antiseptic solutions unless directed by a healthcare professional.
- Ensure the catheter bag is emptied regularly and changed as per the service user’s care plan.
How we manage this efficiently:
- Regular catheter care checklists ensure staff follow infection control measures.
- Training on catheter-associated urinary tract infection (CAUTI) prevention is mandatory for care staff.
7. Catheter Bag and Drainage System Management
7.1 Positioning and Securing the Catheter Bag
- Ensure the drainage bag is positioned below bladder level to prevent backflow.
- Use leg straps or stat-lock devices to secure the catheter tubing and avoid pulling.
7.2 Emptying the Catheter Bag
- Empty the drainage bag at least every 4-6 hours or when half full.
- Use a clean container to avoid contamination.
- Document urine output and consistency, and report concerns such as blood in the urine or strong odours.
How we manage this efficiently:
- Staff complete catheter care logs, monitoring fluid balance and urinary health.
- Immediate escalation of concerns to the district nurse or GP.
8. Recognising and Responding to Catheter Complications
8.1 Signs of Catheter-Associated Urinary Tract Infection (CAUTI)
- Cloudy, foul-smelling urine.
- Pain or burning around the catheter site.
- Fever, chills, or lower back pain.
- Reduced urine output or blockage.
8.2 Responding to Catheter Emergencies
- Catheter Blockage: Encourage hydration, check for kinks, and escalate to a healthcare professional.
- Leakage or Bypassing: Ensure correct positioning and securement, and report persistent leakage.
- Dislodgement or Accidental Removal: Contact the district nurse immediately for reinsertion.
How we manage this efficiently:
- All catheter issues are documented and escalated appropriately.
- Emergency catheter protocols are included in all care plans.
9. Promoting Service User Comfort and Dignity
9.1 Supporting Independence
- Encourage service users to participate in their catheter care, where possible.
- Provide privacy and respect personal dignity during catheter care procedures.
- Use discreet collection bags and clothing adaptations for comfort and confidence.
9.2 Maintaining Hydration and Bladder Health
- Encourage fluid intake (unless medically contraindicated) to prevent infections.
- Monitor bowel movements, as constipation can cause catheter discomfort.
How we manage this efficiently:
- Personalised hydration plans are integrated into care plans.
- Nutrition and hydration support is provided where needed.
10. Staff Training and Competency in Catheter Care
10.1 Mandatory Training Includes:
- Types of catheters and their functions.
- Correct techniques for catheter hygiene and bag management.
- Recognising and responding to catheter-related complications.
- Infection control measures to prevent CAUTI.
10.2 Competency Assessments
- All staff must demonstrate catheter care competency before providing direct support.
- Annual refresher training ensures staff stay updated on best practices.
How we manage this efficiently:
- A designated catheter care trainer oversees staff competency assessments.
- Regular audits and spot checks ensure compliance with best practices.
11. Multi-Agency Collaboration
- Care staff coordinate with district nurses and GPs for catheter changes and medical oversight.
- Any concerns regarding catheter use are escalated through agreed referral pathways.
- Regular multi-disciplinary meetings ensure service users receive holistic support.
12. Related Policies
This policy aligns with:
- Infection Prevention and Control Policy (DCW22).
- Medication Management Policy (DCW21).
- Dignity and Personal Care Policy (DCW07).
- Risk Management and Assessment Policy (DCW18).
13. Policy Review
This policy will be reviewed annually or sooner if required due to legislative changes, business needs, or CIW updates. The Registered Manager and Responsible Individual are responsible for ensuring compliance.
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}}
Copyright © {{current_year}} – {{org_field_name}}. All rights reserved.