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BackTable / Urology / Article
How to Insert a Catheter in a Male Patient: a Step-by-Step Guide
Bryant Schmitz • Updated Apr 8, 2025 • 31 hits
Male catheter insertion involves the placement of a catheter into the urethra to drain urine from the bladder. Urinary catheters are used to manage urinary retention, facilitate diagnostic testing, or assist with post-surgical recovery. This article covers indications, preparation, essential steps and best practices for how to insert a catheter in a male patient.
Table of Contents
(1) Indications for Male Catheter Insertion
(2) Preparation for Insertion
(3) Step-by-Step Instructions for Male Catheter Insertion
(4) Common Complications and Troubleshooting
(5) Post-Insertion Care
(6) Conclusion
Indications for Male Catheter Insertion
Several clinical scenarios may require male catheterization. Some of the most common indications include:
• Acute or chronic urinary retention: Inability to void urine due to blockages or dysfunction in the urinary system.
• Post-surgical care: To manage urine output after procedures like prostate surgery.
• Diagnostic purposes: For collecting a sterile urine sample or measuring urine output during critical care.
• Palliative care: In cases where a patient cannot urinate independently and catheterization can improve comfort and quality of life.
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Preparation for Insertion
Preparation is key to ensuring a sterile, safe catheterization procedure. Here are the steps to follow:
• Patient Comfort: Explain the procedure to the patient, ensuring they are informed and relaxed. Use a calm, reassuring tone to alleviate any anxiety.
• Gather Supplies: Ensure all necessary items are available, including a sterile catheter, gloves, lubricant, antiseptic solution, and sterile drapes.
• Position the Male Patient: Place the patient in the supine or semi-recumbent position, with legs spread apart for optimal access. Ensure privacy by using a drape to cover unnecessary areas.
• Hand Hygiene: Perform thorough handwashing before donning sterile gloves to prevent contamination.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Male Catheter Insertion
Follow these steps for a smooth and sterile catheter insertion:
1. Wash Hands and Apply Sterile Gloves: Begin by washing your hands thoroughly. Then, put on sterile gloves to maintain a sterile field.
2. Prepare the Catheter and Lubricant: Lubricate the tip of the catheter generously to ease insertion and minimize discomfort for the male patient.
3. Position and Hold the Penis: With your non-dominant hand, hold the penis firmly at the shaft, ensuring it is positioned upwards to straighten the urethra and provide the best angle for insertion.
4. Cleanse the Urethral Meatus: Using an antiseptic solution (such as iodine or chlorhexidine), clean the urethral meatus in a circular motion starting from the center and moving outward. This reduces the risk of infection by removing bacteria from the area.
5. Insert the Catheter: With your dominant hand, gently insert the catheter into the urethra, directing it towards the bladder. Apply steady pressure, but do not force the catheter if you encounter resistance. The catheter should advance smoothly once it reaches the bladder.
6. Inflate the Balloon (If Using a Foley Catheter): Once urine begins to flow freely, advance the catheter slightly further into the bladder. If using a Foley catheter, inflate the balloon with the prescribed amount of sterile water to hold the catheter in place.
7. Secure the Catheter: Once the catheter is in place, secure it by taping it to the male patient’s thigh or abdomen. This prevents movement and discomfort, as well as reduces the risk of accidental dislodgement.
8. Dispose of Materials and Perform Hand Hygiene: Carefully dispose of any used materials in a sterile manner. Be sure to wash your hands after the procedure to maintain cleanliness.
Common Complications and Troubleshooting
Despite careful technique, complications can arise during male catheter insertion. Some common issues include:
• Urethral Injury: If resistance is encountered, reassess the insertion angle or consider using a smaller catheter size. In rare cases, an anatomical issue such as an enlarged prostate may make insertion difficult.
• Infections: Catheter-associated urinary tract infections (CAUTIs) are a risk. Minimize this by using sterile techniques, appropriate catheter care, and timely removal of the catheter.
• Discomfort: Male patients may experience discomfort during or after catheter insertion. Providing adequate lubrication and using the appropriate catheter size can help reduce discomfort.
• Resistance: In case of resistance during insertion, consider alternative catheter types or consult with a urologist if anatomical anomalies are suspected.
Post-Insertion Care
After the catheter is in place, it’s crucial to monitor its function:
• Check for Urine Flow: Ensure urine is draining freely and there are no signs of blockage.
• Catheter Care: Regularly check the catheter for leaks and change it according to the prescribed schedule.
• Patient Hygiene: Instruct the male patient on how to care for the catheter, including maintaining proper hygiene to prevent infection.
Conclusion
Male catheter insertion is a fundamental skill for many healthcare professionals, essential for managing urinary retention, aiding recovery after surgery, or facilitating diagnostic procedures. Following the correct procedure, using sterile techniques, and monitoring for complications will help ensure male patient comfort and minimize risks.
Additional resources:
[1] Meddings, J., Saint, S., et al. (2011). Indwelling urinary catheter insertion and maintenance. Clinical Infectious Diseases, 52(11), 1291-1293. https://doi.org/10.1093/cid/cir122
[2] Shepherd, A. J., Mackay, W. G., & Hagen, S. (2015). Urinary catheterisation: Indications and complications. British Journal of Midwifery, 23(8), 558-562. https://doi.org/10.12968/bjom.2015.23.8.558
[3] European Association of Urology Nurses (EAUN). (2024). Evidence-based guidelines for best practice in urological health care: Catheterisation. Retrieved from https://nurses.uroweb.org/wp-content/uploads/EAUN-Guideline-indwelling-catheterisation-2024.pdf
Podcast Contributors
Dr. Anne Cameron
Dr. Anne Cameron is a urologist and assistant professor with University of Michigan Medical School in Ann Arbor.
Dr. Suzette Sutherland
Dr. Suzette Sutherland is the director of female urology with UW Medicine in Seattle, Washington.
Cite This Podcast
BackTable, LLC (Producer). (2023, December 27). Ep. 144 – Recurrent UTIs: Controlling Those Nasty Little Bladder Infections [Audio podcast]. Retrieved from https://www.backtable.com
Disclaimer: The Materials available on BackTable.com are for informational and educational purposes only and are not a substitute for the professional judgment of a healthcare professional in diagnosing and treating patients. The opinions expressed by participants of the BackTable Podcast belong solely to the participants, and do not necessarily reflect the views of BackTable.
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