How to document urinary catheterization?

Documenting urinary catheterization is an essential part of maintaining accurate medical records and ensuring proper patient care. The documentation should be clear, concise, and follow the standard practices within your healthcare facility. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to document urinary catheterization:

1. Patient Information:
   – Start by recording the patient’s full name, date of birth, medical record number, and other identifying information.
   – Note the date and time of the catheterization procedure.
2. Procedure Details:
   – Specify the reason for the catheterization, such as urinary retention, surgery, or monitoring urinary output.
   – Mention the type and size of the catheter used (e.g., Foley catheter, 16 French).
   – Document who performed the procedure, including their name and title.
3. Informed Consent:
   – Verify that informed consent was obtained from the patient or their legal guardian if required.
   – Note any specific instructions or concerns mentioned by the patient or their family.
4. Preparation:
   – Describe the patient’s position during the procedure (e.g., supine or lithotomy).
   – Record the use of sterile technique, including hand hygiene, gloves, and draping.
5. Anesthesia/Analgesia:
   – Indicate if local anesthesia was used and the type (e.g., lidocaine jelly) or any analgesics administered for pain relief.
6. Insertion:
   – Detail the insertion process, including:
   – The anatomical landmark used for catheter insertion (urethral meatus).
   – The ease or difficulty of insertion.
   – Any resistance encountered during insertion.
   – The depth of insertion (in centimeters or inches).
   – Ensure that the catheter balloon is inflated with the appropriate volume of sterile water.
7. Urine Output:
   – Mention the initial urine output (if any) and whether it was clear, cloudy, or bloody.
   – Document the urine output after catheter insertion, and note the color, odor, and any abnormalities.
8. Securement:
   – Describe how the catheter was secured in place (e.g., with adhesive tape or a catheter stabilization device).
   – Ensure the catheter is not under tension to avoid trauma.
9. Documentation of Vital Signs:
   – Note the patient’s vital signs before, during, and after the procedure, including blood pressure, heart rate, respiratory rate, and oxygen saturation, if relevant.
10. Patient Tolerance:
    – Record how the patient tolerated the procedure, including any discomfort, pain, or adverse reactions.
11. Complications:
    – Report any immediate complications or issues encountered during catheterization, such as bleeding, infection, or catheter misplacement.
12. Post-Procedure Instructions:
    – Document any post-catheterization care instructions provided to the patient, such as maintaining hygiene, monitoring for signs of infection, and the expected duration of catheter use.
13. Follow-up Plan:
    – Mention any follow-up assessments or actions that need to be taken, such as catheter removal, scheduled catheter changes, or additional medical evaluations.
14. Signature and Date:
    – Sign and date the documentation to confirm the accuracy of the record.
    – Include the signature of the healthcare provider who performed the procedure.
15. Review and Corrections:
    – Ensure that the documentation is complete and accurate. Make any necessary corrections if errors are found.

Remember that proper documentation is crucial for patient safety, continuity of care, and legal purposes. Always adhere to your facility’s specific documentation guidelines and protocols when recording urinary catheterization procedures.