Explain the reason for self-catheterization and corresponding health issues related to the need for catheterization.
Explain the benefits of self-catheterization, including reducing high postvoid residual volumes, reduced risk of urinary tract infection compared to an indwelling urinary catheterization, and improved quality of life.
Explain potential complications, such as bleeding and the risk of urinary tract infections, and what to do if they occur.
Ensure privacy and dignity.
Include discussion regarding the frequency of intermittent catheterization and how to incorporate it into the patient's usual daily routine.
Explain the anatomy of the urinary tract, hygiene, and preparation of the catheter.
Demonstrate how to open, hold, and use the catheter.
Explain catheterization process; demonstrate process; observe return demonstration by patient.
Explore process to obtain supplies and assist with an informed choice of a catheter that suits the patient and their lifestyle.
Provide information in an appropriate format (such as written materials or video, in appropriate language) to reinforce instruction.
Allow the patient adequate time to ask questions.
Provide information about how to recognize a urinary tract infection and other signs/symptoms to report to the health care team.
Explain that aids are available to help meet the challenges of intermittent self-catheterization for patients with poor eyesight, reduced mobility, and/or reduced manual dexterity.
Source: Adapted from Balhi, S., & Mrabet, M. K. (2020). Teaching patients clean intermittent self-catheterisation: Key points. British Journal of Community Nursing, 25(12), 586-593; Bardsley, A. (2015b). Assessing and teaching female intermittent self-catheterization. British Journal of Community Nursing, 20 (7), 344-346; Collins, L. (2019). Intermittent self-catheterisation: Good patient education and support are key. British Journal of Nursing, 28(15), 964-966; Davis, C., & Rantell, A. (2018). Selecting an intermittent self-catheter: Key considerations. British Journal of Nursing, 27(15), S11-S16; Hillery, S. (2020). Intermittent self-catheterisation: A person-centred approach. British Journal of Nursing, 29(15), 858-860; Leach, D. (2018). Teaching patients a clean intermittent self-catheterisation technique. British Journal of Nursing, 27(6), 296-298; Logan, K. (2020). An exploration of men's experiences of learning intermittent self-catheterisation with a silicone catheter. British Journal of Nursing, 29(2), 84-90; Mangnall, J. (2015). Managing and teaching intermittent catheterisation. British Journal of Community Nursing, 20 (2), 82-88; and Wilson, M. (2015a). Clean intermittent self-catheterisation: Working with patients. British Journal of Nursing, 24(2), 76-85.