How To Take Care of a Pediatric Catheter
Posted by Jeanne Lowry on Dec 8th 2023
The number of things a parent has to learn and keep up with for their child’s care can feel overwhelming. Still, as a busy parent, ensuring your child’s well-being will always be a priority, especially when it comes to managing their healthcare needs.
If your child deals with urinary conditions, one essential aspect of their health is maintaining the cleanliness and functionality of their pediatric catheter. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll show you the proper techniques and suggestions for taking care of your child’s pediatric catheter effectively.
What Are Pediatric Catheters?
Pediatric catheters are small, flexible tubes specifically designed for children who require assistance with urinary drainage. Pediatric catheters are much shorter than standard ones since urethras in children aren’t full size at their age. The purpose of the device is to help safely and effectively empty the bladder, addressing issues like urinary retention or neurogenic bladder dysfunction.
Types of Pediatric Catheters
There are several different types of catheters on the market for children. It’s up to you and your child’s doctor to ensure you get one that’s the best fit for the child’s individual needs. Some of the common types include the following:
- Intermittent catheters: These are for short-term drainage and are typically removed after the bladder has been emptied.
- Indwelling catheters: These are designed to remain in the bladder for longer periods, providing continuous drainage.
- External catheters: These are placed outside the body, typically for boys, and connected to a collection bag.
How To Choose the Right Type
Selecting the appropriate pediatric catheter for your child ensures an optimal and comfortable experience for them. There are a few considerations to keep in mind when choosing one for your child, which we’ll cover below.
Your Child’s Age and Size
Pediatric catheters come in various sizes to accommodate children of different ages and body sizes. Buying one specific for their age group will ensure a comfortable and secure fit.
Proper Material
Catheters are made from various materials, such as PVC and silicone, and many have hydrophilic coatings. Hydrophilic-coated catheters make the insertion and removal process much easier. Regardless of which you choose, each material has its benefits, and you should consult your child’s healthcare provider for their expert recommendation.
Individual Medical Needs
Understanding your child’s unique medical needs is crucial when selecting the right type of catheter. Consult with their healthcare provider to discuss any specific concerns and develop a personalized care plan.
The Importance of Handling and Storage
Now that you understand the basics, let’s get into more detail on how to take care of a pediatric catheter. This process isn’t just a matter of cleanliness; it’s a crucial step in ensuring your child’s overall health. A well-maintained catheter reduces the possibility of infection, helps prevent complications, and promotes comfort for your child during their daily activities.
This process starts before your child even uses their catheter. Proper handling and storage are essential to ensure the longevity and usefulness of your child’s pediatric catheter. Here are some tips for effectively managing this vital medical device in your home.
Use a Dedicated Storage Area
To ensure the catheters don’t get dirty, designate a specific storage area for them. This can be a cupboard, drawer, or ventilated container. No matter which spot you choose, ensure the area is generally dry and clean. Also, keeping the storage area organized will make it easier for you and your child to find a catheter when necessary.
Handle the Catheter Carefully
When it comes time to use a catheter, make sure you handle it carefully. We’ll go into more detail on keeping it clean during use in the next section, but you’ll want to make sure you don’t cause the catheter to crack before use. This could lead to unpleasant urethral cuts or even infection. As long as you’re not rough with the catheter, everything should be fine.
Proper Technique for Cleaning Your Child’s Catheter
When it comes to the actual cleaning of a catheter, adhering to the correct techniques and procedures will provide further assurance of your child’s well-being. Below are the steps to follow for effective catheter cleaning.
Wash Hands Thoroughly
First and most importantly, wash both your hands and your child’s hands thoroughly using soap and warm water. This will help prevent the spread of bacteria and reduce the risk of infection. Make sure you dry them well to ensure no moisture gets trapped in the catheter during insertion.
Wash and Rinse the Catheter
Depending on the type of catheter your child uses, you might not need to wash it beforehand. If you do, be sure to use warm, soapy water before rinsing the catheter thoroughly. Ensure the entire length of the tubing is clean and free of any debris before moving on to the next step.
Dry the Catheter Completely
After washing and rinsing the catheter, if it was necessary, pat it dry with a clean towel. For the same reason that you want dry hands, no moisture should remain in the catheter at this point, as this could promote bacterial growth and potentially lead to infection.
Inspect the Catheter if Necessary
If the catheter your child uses is one that remains in for long periods of time, regularly inspect it for signs of wear and tear, such as cracks, pinholes, or discoloration. If you notice any issues, replace the catheter immediately to avoid complications. If everything looks fine, follow the previous cleaning instructions before reinserting it.
The Proper Technique for Emptying the Catheter Bag
For long-term catheters, your child will also need to wear a collection bag. Emptying this bag is another vital aspect of proper pediatric catheter care. To do this effectively, here are some quick steps to keep in mind:
- Carefully detach the catheter tube from the urine collection bag.
- Gently drain the urine into a designated container.
- Reattach the catheter tube to the urine collection bag, ensuring a secure connection.
- Monitor the bag to guarantee it isn’t overfilled, as this can lead to discomfort and potential issues.
Monitoring for Signs of Complications
Unfortunately, no matter how careful you are, complications are a possibility for your child. Knowing what to look for will help catch these issues before they become worse. Keep an eye out for any of the following signs of complications:
- Fever
- Pain, redness, or swelling near the catheter site
- Cloudy, foul-smelling urine
- Blood in the urine
- Blockage or leakage of urine
If any of these signs appear, don’t hesitate to contact your child’s doctor for assistance. In some cases, the issue might be something you can take care of at home. If you need to bring your child in for further evaluation, their doctor will let you know.
With all this information, you can better ensure your child has everything they need to handle their condition. Focus on getting the right catheter and cleaning it correctly to minimize risks and give your child the best possible experience with their catheter.
