A Foley urinary catheter is basically a tube that goes directly into the bladder. Then that tube drains urine into a bag. Let’s just say I was shocked when I first learned of them. However, many patients have a Foley urinary catheter and I got used to them pretty quickly! There are several reasons why a patient would get a foley urinary catheter.
Why to Get a Foley Urinary Cather
- Acute urinary retention
- Renal surgery
- Bladder obstruction like a tumor
- Critically ill such as:
- burns
- shock
- intubated
- Incontinent with open wounds in the perineal area
- Comfort at the end of life
As nurses we are expected to manage the care of a Foley urinary catheter. We are expected to know how to insert them, how to assess for any complications, how to drain them, clean around them and eventually how to take them out.
Want to learn more about Foleys and other tubes? Check out my NCLEX Nursing Nugget Pages. It has the most important information you need to know for nursing school and taking the NCLEX. I also help nursing students pass the NCLEX as a private tutor. Reach out if interested!
