How to Remove a Urinary Catheter

In clinical practice, patients undergoing certain surgical procedures may require an indwelling urinary catheter. When no longer needed, the catheter must be removed—but catheter removal requires specific technique and care. Improper removal techniques may lead to catheter-associated urinary tract infections (CAUTIs), resulting in unnecessary complications and harm. So, how should a urinary catheter be safely removed? Below, we address this question.

How to Remove a Urinary Catheter

Typically, a urinary catheter has two lumens: one for urine drainage and another for inflating or deflating the retention balloon. Before removal, it is essential to correctly identify which lumen serves which function. First, the clinician must perform hand hygiene, wear a mask, and ensure patient privacy. Required supplies include a treatment drape, kidney basin, and syringe. The patient should be positioned supine with legs slightly abducted to expose the perineal area; the treatment drape is placed beneath the buttocks, and the kidney basin is positioned beside the perineum. Next, the clinician dons sterile gloves and removes the securing tape. If using a balloon-type catheter, the syringe is first used to fully aspirate fluid from the balloon. Then, 0.5–1 mL of air is reinjected into the balloon to smooth its surface and minimize friction during withdrawal. Additionally, the patient is instructed to simulate urination (e.g., by bearing down), and the clinician gently withdraws the catheter in coordination with this action. Once removed, the catheter is placed into the kidney basin, the perineal area is cleaned, and the procedure concludes.

Knowledge Extension: Key Considerations During Catheter Removal

1. Accurately identify the balloon inflation/deflation port—not the urine drainage lumen. This distinction is critical. Typically, 10–20 mL of fluid (commonly ~15 mL) must be completely aspirated from the balloon; syringes are calibrated, allowing precise volume measurement. During removal, withdraw the catheter slowly and steadily. If resistance is encountered, do not force extraction. Additionally, the urine collection bag should be changed daily; for long-term indwelling catheters, replace the catheter weekly. Encourage patients to maintain adequate fluid intake throughout the indwelling period.

2. Strictly adhere to aseptic technique. If accidental vaginal insertion occurs or if the catheter becomes dislodged, immediately replace it with a new sterile catheter. For patients with urinary retention, carefully control both the rate and volume of initial bladder decompression—avoid rapid drainage. Drain approximately 600–800 mL, then temporarily clamp the catheter. Monitor and document urine characteristics—including color, volume, and clarity. Normal 24-hour urine output ranges from 1500–2000 mL; polyuria is defined as >2500 mL/24 h; oliguria as <400 mL/24 h; and anuria as <50 mL/24 h. Normally, urine is colorless, transparent, or pale yellow. Abnormal findings include hematuria (blood-tinged urine), hemoglobinuria, bilirubinuria, and chyluria.

The above outlines the proper technique for urinary catheter removal. We hope this information is helpful to you.