how to change a s/p cath

[chenoaspirit, ASN, RN]

Ive never changed one and I have to change one tomorrow (Im on my own for the first time since starting HH). I was told that its the same as changing a F/C, is this true? Please help me. I have to do this tomorrow and Im nervous. In the hospital, I never had to do this.

[annaedRN, RN]

I'm in HH and chnage them all the time. Yep - same as a foley. Remove water/saline from balloon, remove foley, have prepared catheter supplies ready, same prep/cleaning around s/p site, insert cath until urine flows, blow up balloon. Patients do seem to be a little more sensitive during these changes (than those with reg foleys), but most of them are used to it. You'll do great!!

[chenoaspirit, ASN, RN]

Thank you so much! I was so worried about it. You just took a LOAD off my mind, now I can sleep. lol.

[CoffeeRTC, BSN, RN]

Yep...same and if you needed to change a feeding tube...same way too.

[Reno1978, BSN, RN]

Although it really depends on anatomy, you don't need to advance the catheter too far - just 3 inches or so. I think they're much easier to change than ones that go up a urethra!