Skill 74

Suprapubic Catheter Care

A suprapubic catheter is a urinary drainage tube inserted surgically into the bladder through the abdominal wall above the symphysis pubis. The catheter may be sutured to the skin, secured with an adhesive material, or retained in the bladder with a fluid-filled balloon similar to an indwelling catheter. Suprapubic catheters are placed when there is blockage of the urethra (e.g., enlarged prostate, urethral stricture, after urological surgery) and in situations when a long-term urethral catheter causes irritation or discomfort or interferes with sexual functioning.

Delegation and Collaboration

The skill of caring for a newly established suprapubic catheter cannot be delegated to nursing assistive personnel (NAP); however, care of an established suprapubic catheter may be delegated (refer to agency policy). The nurse directs the NAP to:

▪ Report patient’s discomfort related to the suprapubic catheter.

▪ Empty drainage bag and document urinary output on intake and output (I&O) record.

▪ Report any change in the amount and character of the urine.

▪ Report any signs of redness, foul odor, or drainage around catheter insertion site.