Catheter care for a female resident: CNA skills test steps

Steps

KEYmarks 11 steps that candidate handbooks commonly treat as critical. Missing a critical step usually fails the skill.

1. 1Knock, introduce yourself by name and title, and greet the resident by name.
2. 2Identify the resident (for example, check the name band or ask the resident to state their name) per facility policy.
3. 3Explain the procedure in simple words and ask the resident to help as much as they are able.
4. 4Key step: Provide privacy: close the door and pull the curtain.KEY
5. 5Key step: Perform hand hygiene before touching the resident.KEY
6. 6Raise the bed to a comfortable working height and lock the wheels.
7. 7Key step: Fill a basin with warm water and check the temperature (with a thermometer or your inner wrist) to be sure it is safe and comfortable for the resident.KEY
8. 8Key step: Put on gloves.KEY
9. 9Key step: Cover the resident with a bath blanket and expose only the perineal area, keeping the resident otherwise covered.KEY
10. 10Place a waterproof pad under the buttocks.
11. 11Hold the catheter near the meatus to avoid pulling on it.
12. 12Key step: Using a clean part of a soapy washcloth for each stroke, clean the tubing starting at the meatus and moving down and away from the body about four inches.KEY
13. 13Key step: Rinse and dry the tubing the same way, always moving away from the meatus.KEY
14. 14Make sure the catheter is secured to the thigh per policy and the tubing has no kinks.
15. 15Key step: Keep the drainage bag below the level of the bladder and off the floor.KEY
16. 16Remove the waterproof pad, empty and rinse the basin, and dispose of linens properly.
17. 17Remove gloves and perform hand hygiene.
18. 18Key step: Return the bed to its lowest position and make sure the wheels are locked.KEY
19. 19Key step: Place the call light and personal items within the resident's reach.KEY
20. 20Key step: Open the privacy curtain, perform hand hygiene, and report anything unusual to the nurse.KEY