Question

Difficulty: HardSelf-Care

A rehabilitation nurse is providing discharge education to a female client with a spinal cord injury who will be managing a neurogenic bladder. The nurse is teaching the client how to perform clean intermittent self-catheterization (CISC) at home. In which order should the client perform the following steps? Arrange the actions in the correct chronological sequence.

  1. 1Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water and gather all required catheterization supplies.
  2. 2Assume a comfortable position, spread the labia, and cleanse the urinary meatus from front to back.
  3. 3Apply water-soluble lubricant to the catheter tip and gently insert it into the urethra until urine begins to flow.
  4. 4Allow the bladder to empty completely, then slowly withdraw the catheter.
  5. 5Wash the reusable catheter with soap and water, allow it to air dry, and store it in a clean container.

Answer

The correct sequence is: Wash hands and gather supplies; Position and cleanse the meatus; Lubricate and insert the catheter; Drain completely and withdraw; Clean and store the equipment.
The correct sequence prioritizes medical asepsis and logical skill progression for home self-catheterization. Hand hygiene and supply preparation must occur first. Cleansing the perineum from front to back occurs immediately prior to insertion to prevent introducing bacteria into the urethra. The catheter is then lubricated and inserted until urine flows. Complete drainage is allowed before slow withdrawal, and the final step involves the hygienic maintenance of the reusable equipment to promote continued safe self-care.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Wash hands and gather supplies.
The client is prepared for the procedure with a reduced risk of transmitting pathogens.
Medical asepsis begins with proper hand hygiene before touching any self-care equipment.
2
Position comfortably and cleanse the meatus from front to back.
The periurethral area is clean and ready for catheter insertion.
Cleansing from front to back prevents the introduction of fecal bacteria into the urinary tract.
3
Lubricate the catheter tip and insert it until urine flows.
The catheter safely enters the bladder to begin drainage.
Water-soluble lubricant prevents tissue trauma, and urine flow confirms correct placement.
4
Allow complete drainage and slowly withdraw the catheter.
The bladder is fully emptied of residual urine.
Slow withdrawal ensures that urine pooled at the base of the bladder is also drained.
5
Wash, dry, and store the reusable catheter.
The equipment is maintained for future safe use.
Home self-catheterization utilizes clean technique, requiring thorough washing of reusable supplies to prevent bacterial overgrowth.

Key Concept

Clean Intermittent Self-Catheterization (CISC) Technique and Home Self-Care Maintenance
Rate this question

Topics