Next Steps

Follow-up

When a catheter is left in place after the initial treatment, you should see a medical professional, usually a urologist, within a few days.

• Sometimes, you will take antibiotics to prevent infection. Catheters are a common cause of urinary tract infections.
  
  
• You will be instructed on the care of the catheter.
  
  
• Either of 2 types of drainage bags can be hooked up to the catheter. A smaller bag can be strapped to your leg, allowing you to go out in public without anyone knowing that a catheter is in place. A larger bag should be used at night so you do not have to awaken to empty it.
  
  
• Return to your health care provider if the catheter stops draining. It is possible that a blood clot, tissue, or debris can plug the catheter. Symptoms of urinary retention will come back and there may be leakage of urine around the catheter. The catheter will require irrigation or replacement.

People with a Foley catheter inside may experience bladder spasms. The catheter is held in the bladder by a balloon at its tip that is inflated with sterile water after the insertion of the catheter. Sometimes, your bladder will contract to try to expel the balloon.

• These spasms can be painful and can result in the leakage of urine from around the catheter.
  
  
• Medications can be used to help relieve the spasms.
  
  
• Medications relax your bladder muscles to prevent further contractions.
  
  
• These medications must be stopped, however, at least 12 hours before your planned catheter removal.

Catheter removal is a simple procedure that can be performed in any medical office.

• It is best done in the morning, if possible. This allows you all day to resume normal urination.
  
  
• If you cannot urinate, the catheter can be replaced during office hours or in the early evening in the emergency department, saving you a late-night hospital visit.
  
  
• Likewise, if you urinate an unusually large amount after being catheterized, let your health care provider know.