How to remove foley? Watch here:
Your Foley catheter drains urine from your bladder. However, sometimes a blood clot can form inside the catheter and block the flow of urine. This causes urine to build up within the bladder which can cause pain and discomfort. If the blockage is not fixed, it can even lead to permanent damage to the bladder and kidneys.
What are some signs that my Foley catheter is clogged?
You may notice increased abdominal pain, pressure, or discomfort
Urine stops emptying into the bag
How do I confirm that my Foley is clogged?
First, empty the urine from urine bag.
Wait about 20 minutes. If no urine has filled up the bag, suspect a blocked foley catheter.
My Foley is Clogged…What Next?
Step 1: Squeeze the base of the Foley catheter between your thumb and forefinger
Step 2: Using your other hand, keep squeezing the catheter (1-2 times/second) for about 15 seconds
If properly performed, this pressure should dislodge the blood clot back into the bladder
You should begin to see urine flow into the bag
Step 3: If you do not see urine flow into the bag, repeat step (2) again
If urine still does not flow into the bag, go to the Emergency Room immediately
This technique fixed my blocked catheter. Now What?
Your foley catheter has been unclogged. Resume activity as usual.
Please wait until business hours to call your urologist and notify him/her about your issue
The urine has a special enzyme called urokinase that may break down the old clot
NOTE: If your bladder is full of clots, your catheter may become clogged again