The nurse is inserting an indwelling urinary catheter for a female patient.Upon insertion of the catheter the nurse accidently touches the patient's leg and bed sheet with the tip of the catheter.What is the most appropriate action by the nurse?
A) Cleanse the tip of the catheter with povidone iodine before proceeding with the insertion.
B) Cleanse the tip of the catheter with alcohol before proceeding with the insertion.
C) Obtain a new catheter and reinsert it using sterile technique.
D) Continue with the procedure as the nurse only lightly touched the surfaces.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Insertion of an indwelling urinary catheter is a sterile procedure for all patients.If the catheter upon insertion touches the labia or vagina (female),unsterile bed linens,or any part of the patient's body,it is contaminated.The nurse must obtain and insert a new,sterile catheter.Cleansing a catheter with povidone-iodine (Betadine)or alcohol is not acceptable,as this does not sterilize the catheter.The nurse should not continue the procedure without obtaining a new catheter.

The Nurse Is Inserting an Indwelling Urinary Catheter for a Female