Male Catheterisation - OSCE Guide

Introduction

• Purpose: Step-by-step guide to performing male catheterisation in an OSCE setting.
• Format: Includes a video demonstration and downloadable PDF OSCE checklist.

Gather Equipment

1. Clean the procedure trolley with a disinfectant wipe.
2. Collect equipment:
   • Plastic apron
   • Two pairs of sterile gloves
   • Sterile water-filled syringe (10ml)
   • 0.9% sodium chloride (10mls)
   • Lidocaine (1%) anaesthetic gel
   • Male urinary catheter (12/14 French)
   • Catheter pack: cotton wool balls, sterile gauze, sterile drapes, gallipot
   • Catheter bag
3. Check expiry dates on all equipment.
4. Ensure a clinical waste bin is nearby.

Introduction to Patient

• Wash hands and don PPE.
• Introduce yourself (name and role) to the patient.
• Confirm patient details: name and date of birth.
• Explain procedure clearly and obtain consent.
• Check for allergies and ascertain any pain.
• Ensure chaperone presence and patient consent for it.
• Privacy: Allow patient to undress and lie on the examination couch.

Equipment Preparation

• Set up sterile field using aseptic non-touch technique (ANTT).
• Pour sodium chloride over cotton balls in the gallipot.

Positioning the Patient

1. Patient should be supine.
2. Wash hands and wear sterile gloves.
3. Place a sterile drape under the genitals.

Cleaning the Penis

1. Hold penis with non-dominant hand.
2. Clean glans using a cotton ball soaked in sodium chloride, moving away from the urethral meatus.
3. Change gloves and wash hands after cleaning.

Inserting the Local Anaesthetic

1. Hold penis vertically.
2. Warn patient about stinging sensation from gel.
3. Insert anaesthetic gel into urethra.
4. Allow 3-5 minutes for gel effect.

Inserting the Catheter

Preparation

• Remove catheter from packaging without contamination.

Insertion

1. Warn patient before insertion.
2. Insert catheter tip, advance slowly.
3. Balloon inflation: Inflate with sterile water, check for patient discomfort.
4. Attach catheter bag.
5. Re-cover patient and clean area.

Completion

• Explain procedure completion and post-care instructions.
• Dispose of PPE and wash hands.
• Document procedure details in patient notes:
  • Personal details, procedure details, indication, anaesthetic used, urine drainage, and any complications.

Notes

• Ensure monitoring of urine output by nursing staff.
• Affix sticky label from catheter packaging to notes.

This guide is designed for medical students and professionals preparing for OSCEs and includes practical steps and tips for successful catheterisation.