What is the proper technique for catheter care for a male resident?

• A. Clean around the meatus; wipe away from the meatus; avoid tugging; pat dry.
• B. Clean around the meatus; rub toward the meatus; tugging allowed; pat dry.
• C. Remove catheter completely; clean; reinsert.
• D. Use soap only; dry thoroughly.

Answer: (A)

The approach focuses on preventing infection by cleaning with a proper sequence and handling the catheter gently. Clean around the urethral opening and wipe away from the meatus toward the end of the catheter. This direction helps keep bacteria from being pushed toward the urethra. Avoid tugging or pulling on the catheter during cleaning to prevent urethral injury or dislodgement. After cleaning, pat the area dry to keep skin dry and reduce moisture that bacteria thrive in. Routine care does not involve removing and reinserting the catheter, and using soap alone without rinsing isn’t ideal. So, cleaning around the opening, wiping away from it, avoiding tugging, and patting dry best maintains cleanliness and catheter safety.