catheter care in home care

[Karina212]

Hi

I was wondering if you could clarify something regarding care of catheter bags in the home care setting. Do leg bags and overnight bags need to be changed and cleansed daily if the patient wishes to use both? I have some patients that hang them to dry without the cap or anything after cleansing which seems odd to me but that is how they were taught.

And if they only use the overnight bag, does it still need to be cleaned?? And if so, what is the most common cleaning agent? Our agency's policy is a bit unclear.

Thanks,

Ker

[URO-RN]

Hi

I was wondering if you could clarify something regarding care of catheter bags in the home care setting. Do leg bags and overnight bags need to be changed and cleansed daily if the patient wishes to use both? I have some patients that hang them to dry without the cap or anything after cleansing which seems odd to me but that is how they were taught.

And if they only use the overnight bag, does it still need to be cleaned?? And if so, what is the most common cleaning agent? Our agency's policy is a bit unclear.

Thanks,

Ker

The bag should be emptied at least every 8 hours, or when the device is full.

As far as cleaning bags,many pts clean them by using 2 parts vinegar and 3 parts water. bleach can be substituted for the vinegar and water mixture. Let thesolution soak for 20 minutes. Hang the bag with the outlet valve open to drain and dry the bag.