Intermittent Catheter Users: How to Reduce the Risk of Urinary Tract Infections

2026-01-06

Intermittent catheter users can reduce the risk of urinary tract infections by adopting the following measures:

Standardize Catheterization Procedures

- Strict Hand Hygiene: Before, after, and during catheterization, thoroughly wash hands with soap and running water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.

- Maintain a Sterile Environment: Use a sterile catheterization kit and place a sterile towel during the procedure to avoid contamination of the urethral opening and surrounding area.

- Gentle Technique: Insert the catheter slowly and gently to avoid damaging the urethral mucosa and reduce the risk of bacterial invasion.

- Proper Disinfection: Clean the urethral opening and surrounding skin with disinfectants such as iodine. For females, wipe from front to back; for males, wipe from the urethral opening toward the glans. Use each cotton ball only once.

Choose the Right Catheter

- Material and Size: Select a catheter made of soft, biocompatible material based on urethral conditions. Adults generally use sizes 12–14, while children require smaller sizes.

- Hydrophilic-Coated Catheters: Prioritize catheters with hydrophilic coatings to reduce friction during insertion and minimize mucosal damage.

Keep the Urethral Opening Clean

- Daily Cleaning: Wash the urethral opening and surrounding skin daily with warm water. Females should pay attention to cleaning the vulva, while males should clean the foreskin and coronal sulcus.

- Prompt Removal of Discharge: If there is discharge around the urethral opening, gently wipe it with a clean cotton ball and disinfect the area.

Manage Fluid Intake

- Adequate Hydration: Consume 1,500–2,000 milliliters of fluids daily to dilute urine, increase urine output, and flush the urethra to reduce bacterial growth.

- Regular Hydration: Avoid drinking large amounts of fluids in a short period or going extended periods without water. Maintain a regular pattern of urine production.

Schedule Catheterization Appropriately

- Follow Medical Advice: Determine the appropriate catheterization frequency based on bladder capacity and residual urine volume. Typically, catheterization is performed 4–6 times daily to avoid overfilling or incomplete emptying of the bladder.

- Avoid Excessive Catheterization: Overuse may damage the urethral mucosa and increase the risk of infection. Adjust the frequency under medical guidance.

Proper Fixation and Maintenance

- Secure the Catheter: After catheterization, secure the catheter with a fixation tape or pin to avoid twisting, compression, or displacement.

- Maintain a Closed Drainage System: Use a closed drainage bag and ensure the bag’s opening does not come into contact with the ground or other objects to prevent urine backflow.

Boost Immunity

- Balanced Diet: Consume foods rich in vitamins, protein, and trace elements, such as fresh fruits and vegetables, lean meats, fish, and nuts, to strengthen the body’s resistance.

- Moderate Exercise: Engage in appropriate physical activities, such as walking or yoga, as permitted by physical condition, to promote blood circulation and metabolism.

If symptoms suggestive of infection, such as frequent urination, urgency, pain during urination, or fever, occur, seek medical attention promptly for urinalysis and appropriate treatment.