Suprapubic and Clean Intermittent Self-Catheterisation

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Indications for suprapubic and intermittent catheterisation
   1. Suprapubic catheters
   2. Intermittent Catheterisation
3. Risks and complications of suprapubic catheters
4. Care and management of suprapubic catheters
   1. Managing the abdominal wound
5. Changing a suprapubic catheter
   1. Managing bypassing and suprapubic catheter blockage
6. Teaching patients to self-catheterise
   1. Frequency of catheterisation
7. Product choice
   1. Other information needs
8. Summary
9. References

Introduction

This learning activity looks at the use of intermittent and suprapubic catheters, including the information and support needs of patients who are being taught to manage these devices.

In this activity you will:

- Demonstrate a critical understanding of when suprapubic or clean intermittent self-catheterisation may be indicated

- Critically appraise the information and support needs required for patients who are being taught to self-catheterise or manage a suprapubic catheter

Suprapubic or intermittent catheters are often used in preference to indwelling urethral catheters and for a variety of reasons. Estimates suggest that a typical district general hospital will perform approximately 100 suprapubic catheterisations per annum (NPSA, 2009a) although it has been suggested that they are under-used (Harrison et al, 2010).

All nurses need to be aware of the indications for suprapubic and intermittent catheterisation and in many cases the decision to use one of these options for catheterisation should be based on the quality of life of the patient. Nurses should also attain the competence required to support and care for patients using either of these options for bladder drainage.