Catheter Care

If a catheter falls out or stops draining and the person feels pain, this is often urgent and you should follow the emergency advice provided by your nurse or hospital team, which may include calling 111 or 999 depending on symptoms. Do not attempt to reinsert the catheter yourself. Our carers are trained to stay calm, keep the person as comfortable as possible, protect clothing and bedding, and contact the appropriate service immediately. We will also support you emotionally during and after the event, as it can be quite frightening for families.

Arranging support is straightforward. You can contact us directly to talk through your situation, whether you’re preparing for discharge from hospital, supporting a loved one, or finding your current routine too much. We’ll listen to what’s happening, discuss the type and frequency of visits that might help, and explain costs clearly. A home visit can be arranged to assess practical needs, risks and preferences, from bathroom layout to privacy concerns. We then create a tailored care plan, which can be adjusted over time. Our aim is to make starting support feel gentle and reassuring, so that catheter care becomes easier to manage and you feel genuinely supported at home.

Reducing infection risk is mainly about good hygiene, a sensible fluid intake and careful handling of the equipment. Hands should always be washed before and after touching the catheter or bag, and the area around the catheter should be gently cleaned and dried once a day or as advised. The drainage bag needs to stay below bladder level and off the floor, with tubing free from kinks. Drinking regularly, unless you’ve been told otherwise, helps flush the bladder. Our carers can build these steps into your daily routine, support hydration through drinks and light snacks, and keep an eye out for early signs of infection such as cloudy, strong-smelling urine, fever or confusion.

There are several important warning signs. If urine suddenly stops flowing into the bag, or the flow becomes very reduced, this may suggest a blockage. New lower abdominal pain, discomfort in the back, fever, chills, confusion or a general feeling of being unwell can all signal infection. Changes in the urine itself – such as strong smell, cloudy appearance or visible blood – are also important. Around the catheter site, redness, swelling, warmth, discharge or increasing soreness need attention. If the catheter falls out or appears partly out, urgent advice is required because the opening can close quickly. Our carers are trained to notice and report these changes, and we’ll always encourage you or your loved one to call the appropriate health professional or emergency service without delay when needed.

In most cases, showering with a catheter is absolutely fine, and many people find it more comfortable than a bath. The catheter and leg bag can usually stay in place, with the strap secured and tubing checked so it does not catch. It’s best to avoid soaking in a bath unless a nurse or doctor has said it is safe, particularly for suprapubic catheters or when there are stitches. Harsh soaps, bubble baths and talc should be kept away from the catheter site. After washing, the area should be dried carefully by patting, not rubbing. Our team can support you with safe, dignified showering or strip washing, helping you maintain good hygiene while respecting your privacy and preferences, and we can show family members how to help safely if that feels right.

Yes, with a bit of planning, most people with catheters continue to enjoy days out, appointments and even holidays. It can help to carry spare bags, wipes, a small towel and a discreet pouch for used equipment. Choosing clothing that hides leg bags comfortably and planning regular toilet stops also makes things easier. Before longer journeys, we can support you to organise supplies, think about fluid intake and identify accessible toilets on route. During visits, our carers can accompany you on local outings, drive you to appointments, or provide supportive company for walks and social activities. The catheter doesn’t have to stop you living life; it just means doing some things a little differently and having the right backup.

Having a catheter does not have to stop you leaving the house or seeing the people you care about. With a bit of planning, you can travel, shop, visit friends or attend social groups. It may help to know where accessible toilets are, carry spare supplies and wear clothing that keeps the bag discreet. Our carers can provide companionship support in the community, joining you on trips, helping with bags and keeping an eye on tubing and drainage so you can focus on enjoying yourself rather than worrying.

Yes, we can provide overnight home care for people who feel anxious about managing their catheter at night or are at higher risk of complications. This might involve helping position and connect a night drainage bag, checking that tubing remains unkinked, and responding promptly if alarms, discomfort or confusion occur. For family carers who are exhausted from repeated night-time checks, having a professional present can bring real relief and better sleep. We tailor overnight support to your needs – from a carer sleeping on-site but available if called, to a waking night where the carer remains awake and carries out regular observations. Our aim is always to promote comfort, safety and reassurance, while protecting the wellbeing of everyone in the household.

In many cases, yes, but it depends on the type of catheter and any specific advice from your nurse or doctor. Showers are often preferred because you can keep the catheter and bag positioned safely without submerging the area for too long. Some people are advised to avoid soaking in baths, especially with new or healing suprapubic sites. Our carers can assist with bathing, showering and general hygiene, helping to protect your privacy and dignity while following the guidance you’ve been given. We’ll also help you choose towels, mats and equipment that make everything safer.

We proudly provide high-quality home care across the East Midlands, in an around the towns and cities detailed below.