How to Insert an Indwelling Foley Catheter in a Female Patient

Pre-Procedure Steps

• Verify Doctor's Order

  • Ensure a doctor's order is in place before insertion.
  • Confirm the type of catheter (indwelling vs. in-and-out).

• Patient Confirmation and Consent

  • Confirm the right patient and right procedure.
  • Explain the procedure to the patient to gain informed consent.

• Gather Supplies

  • Check the Foley catheter kit for completeness.
  • Gather additional supplies such as washcloths, sterile gloves, clean gloves, PPE if needed, alcohol prep, and a waterproof pad.
  • Assess for latex and iodine allergies.

Preparing the Patient

• Patient Positioning

  • Use Dorsal Recumbent or Sims position based on patient's mobility.
  • Place a waterproof pad under the patient.

• Hand Hygiene and Initial Setup

  • Perform hand hygiene and wear clean gloves.
  • Open Foley kit and prepare by reading instructions and organizing contents.

Performing the Procedure

• Perineal Care and Anatomy Identification

  • Use soap towelettes for perineal care.
  • Identify anatomical landmarks: labia majora, labia minora, frenulum, urethral meatus.
  • Instruct patient to bear down to locate the urethral meatus.

• Sterile Field Preparation

  • Open sterile kit using sterile technique.
  • Don sterile gloves and maintain sterility throughout the procedure.

• Cleaning and Draping

  • Use Betadine swabs to clean from top to bottom.
  • Place underpad and fenestrated drape.

• Catheter Insertion

  • Lubricate catheter tip (2 inches for females).
  • Insert catheter while patient exhales, advance until urine return, then an additional 2 inches.
  • Inflate the balloon with the water syringe.

• Securing the Catheter

  • Gently tug to ensure placement.
  • Use the securement device on the inner thigh, ensuring slack in the catheter.
  • Clean and prep skin area with alcohol and skin prep prior to applying the securement device.

Post-Procedure

• Positioning Drainage Bag

  • Ensure the drainage bag is below the bladder and not on the floor.
  • Avoid kinks in the tubing.

• Final Steps

  • Clean the patient and cover them appropriately.
  • Doff gloves, perform hand hygiene, and document the procedure.

• Documentation

  • Record insertion details, time, and any patient reactions or complications.