Policy Manual sample

MDT Home Health Care Agency, Inc. URINARY CATHETERS If a urinary catheter must be used, a true "closed system" of drainage must be maintained: 1. The system must not be opened to collect specimens, irrigate, measure, etc. 2. Catheter irrigations should be avoided if at all possible. Replacement of the catheter is preferred. 3. If the bladder irrigation is necessary, a 3-way Foley is to be used. 4. If intermittent irrigation cannot be avoided, a sterile irrigation set must be used for each irrigation. Scrupulous perineal cleansing must be maintained for all patients with urinary catheters at least 3 times a day. When patients must have urinary catheters for extended periods of time, the catheter and drainage system will be changed as ordered by the individual patient's physician. All physician's orders for urinary catheters will indicate the date of replacement. In the event the physician does not indicate the date for the catheter replacement, then the catheter and drainage system should be changed every thirty (30) days, or as necessary. Home Health Agency Nursing Care & Procedures K-35