Foley catheter irrigation is a procedure that involves flushing a Foley catheter with sterile water or saline to prevent clogging and maintain the catheter’s patency. A Foley catheter is a thin, flexible tube that is inserted into the bladder through the urethra to drain urine. It is commonly used in hospitals and other healthcare settings for patients who are unable to urinate on their own, such as those who have undergone surgery or have a spinal cord injury.
Flushing a Foley catheter is an important part of catheter care and helps to prevent complications such as infection and blockage. It is typically done every 8 to 12 hours, or as directed by a healthcare professional. To flush a Foley catheter, you will need the following supplies:
