Removing Indwelling Catheters

Procedure:
1. Confirm the physicians order to remove. Assume handwashing and prepare the
equipment needed such as receptacle for the catheter, clean disposable towel, clean
gloves and sterile syringe to deflate the balloon, a large one.
2. Prepare the client. Explain the procedure and assist to a supine position. Optimal:
Obtain a sterile specimen before removing the catheter. Check agency protocol.
3. Remove the tape or catheter securing device attaching the catheter to the client, put
on gloves and then place the towel between the legs of the female client or over the
thighs of the male.
4. Insert the syringe into the injection port of the catheter and withdraw the fluid from
the balloon. If not all of the fluid can be removed report this fact to the nurse
incharge before proceeding.
5. Do not pull the catheter while the balloon is inflated; doing so may injure the urethra.
6. After all of the fluid is withdrawn from the balloon, gently withdraw the catheter and
place it in the waster receptacle.
7. Dry the perineal area with a towel.
8. Remove gloves.
9. Measure the urine in the drainage bag and record the removal of the catheter
- Time the catheter was removed
- Amount, color and clarity of the urine
- Intactness of the catheter
- Instructions given to the client
10. Provide the client with either a urinal (M) bedpan, commode or toilet collection
device to be used with each subsequent unassisted void.
11. Following removal of the catheter, determine the time of the first voiding and the
amount voided during the first 8 hours. Compare this output to the client intake.
12. Observe for dysfunctional voiding behaviors which might indicate urinary retention. If
this occurs, perform an assessment of post void residuals using a bladder scanner if
available. Generally post void residuals greater than 200 cc will require straight
catheterization as needed.

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