Clean intermittent self-catheterization

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Catheterization

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7. Once the urine flow starts, continue to advance the catheter another 1 inch. Hold it in place until the urine flow stops and the bladder is empty.

8. Remove the catheter in small steps to make sure the entire bladder empties.

9. If the catheter is disposable, discard it right away. If it is reusable, rinse the catheter completely and dry the outside. Store the catheter in a clean, dry, secure location.

10. Record the amount of urine obtained, as instructed by your health care provider.

HOW TO PERFORM CISC (WOMEN):

1. Assemble all equipment: catheter, lubricant, drainage receptacle.

2. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water and clean the vulva and opening of the urethra.

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3. Lubricate the catheter using water-based lubricants only.

4. Locate the urethral opening. The opening is located below the clitoris and above the vagina.

5. Spread the lips of the vagina (labia) with the second and fourth finger, while using the middle finger to feel for the opening.

6. Begin to gently insert the catheter into the opening. Guide it upward as if toward the belly button.

7. Once the catheter has been inserted about 2 - 3 inches past the opening, urine will begin to flow.

8. Once the urine flow starts, continue to advance the catheter another 1 inch and hold it in place until the urine flow stops and the bladder is empty.

9. Withdraw the catheter in small steps to make sure the entire bladder empties.

10. If the catheter is disposable, discard it right away. If it is reusable, rinse the catheter completely and dry the outside. Store the catheter in a clean, dry, secure location.

11. Record the amount of urine obtained, as instructed by your health care provider.

Some women may perform CISC standing up with one foot on the toilet. This position is also recommended when there is a question about the cleanliness of the toilet, such as in public facilities.

You may reuse a CISC catheter for 2 - 4 weeks. It may be helpful to soak the catheter in a white vinegar solution once a week to control odor and remove thick mucus deposits. Your health care provider may recommend other cleaning or sterilization techniques if you often get infections.

Review Date: 09/03/2010
Reviewed By: Jennifer K. Mannheim, ARNP, Medical Staff, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health, Seattle Children's Hospital; Scott Miller, MD, Urologist in private practice in Atlanta, Georgia. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org).