A urinary catheter is a thin, flexible tube inserted into the bladder to drain urine into an attached drainage bag. For individuals managing a long-term indwelling catheter at home, switching the drainage bag is a frequent and necessary task. This procedure typically involves changing from a smaller, mobile leg bag used during the day to a larger, stationary bedside bag for overnight use. Proper bag management ensures patient comfort and maintains a closed, hygienic drainage system.
Why Catheter Bags Must Be Switched
Bags must be switched due to functional differences designed for specific times of day. The leg bag, holding 500 to 750 milliliters, is small and worn discreetly beneath clothing, secured to the thigh or calf. This allows for mobility during waking hours, though its smaller capacity requires emptying every two to four hours. The night bag, or bedside bag, is significantly larger, often holding 1,000 to 2,000 milliliters. This larger size accommodates the full volume of urine produced over a typical eight-hour sleep period, preventing overfilling and potential urine backflow.
Essential Preparation Before Changing Bags
Meticulous preparation is necessary before switching bags to maintain sterility and prevent infection. Gather all required supplies: the clean night drainage bag, antiseptic wipes or alcohol pads, a clean towel or gauze, and disposable gloves. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, as hand hygiene is the primary defense against introducing bacteria. The used leg bag should be emptied into the toilet before disconnection to minimize spillage. Place a clean towel beneath the connection point to catch any residual drops of urine during the transition.
Step-by-Step Guide for Switching Bags
The process begins by temporarily stopping the flow of urine into the tubing. Locate the catheter tubing a few inches above the connection port and gently pinch it with your fingers to clamp the tube, preventing leakage during disconnection. While pinching the tube, gently disconnect the day bag from the catheter tubing using a careful twisting motion, avoiding pulling on the catheter itself. Immediately clean the exposed end of the catheter tubing thoroughly with an antiseptic wipe to remove surface germs.
Next, clean the connector end of the new night bag with a fresh alcohol pad to sanitize both connecting surfaces. Insert the connector tip of the night bag firmly into the catheter tubing using a twisting motion until the connection is secure and airtight. After the new bag is attached, release the pinch on the catheter tubing, allowing urine to flow into the night bag, and check the connection for leakage. The disconnected day bag can be set aside for later cleaning, followed by a final hand wash.
Monitoring and When to Seek Medical Help
Once the night bag is connected, position it properly to ensure effective drainage. The bag should be hung on a dedicated stand or hook beside the bed, always placed lower than the level of the bladder. This utilizes gravity and prevents urine from flowing back toward the body. Monitor the urine draining into the bag throughout the night, noting both the volume and appearance. A sudden, complete stop in urine flow for four or more hours, especially with bladder discomfort, requires immediate attention.
Seek urgent medical advice if you notice signs of a potential infection, such as fever, chills, or pain in the lower abdomen or flank area. Changes in the urine, including cloudiness, a foul odor, or the presence of blood, may also indicate a urinary tract infection. Other warning signs include pus or severe tenderness around the catheter entry site, or persistent leakage around the catheter, which could signal a blockage or irritation.