DESCRIPTION
What is a suprapubic (SP) catheter?
A suprapubic catheter, also called a SP catheter, is a tube that carries your
child’s urine from the bladder to a bag for disposal. This tube comes out
through a small hole in your child’s stomach (suprapubic or “SP”). A SP
catheter may be needed for a variety of reasons, such as:
• Leakage (urinary incontinence)
• Not being able to urinate (urinary retention)
• Surgery or another health problem
How do I care for the catheter?
It is very important to take good care of your child’s catheter, including the
tube and drainage system. Keep all parts of the drainage system very clean to
prevent infection.
To clean the area where the catheter enters your child’s body, follow these
steps:
1.Wash your hands with soap and water. It is not necessary to wear gloves.
2.Wash the catheter where it leaves the body every day with mild soap and
warm water. This may also be done in the shower. Take care that you do
not pull on the catheter.
3. Inspect the skin at least once a day. A small amount of redness and clear
drainage is normal.
4. If there is dried blood or mucous on the catheter that does not come off
with soap and water, use hydrogen peroxide to gently wipe the catheter
with a cotton ball or gauze pad.
5. Rinse the skin and catheter with warm water. Pat dry with a towel.
6. You may place a dressing over the catheter site if you wish. It is not
required, but some people feel more comfortable doing so.
7. Keep the catheter secured to your child’s belly (using tape, Tegaderm,
catheter holder or other) to prevent it from being pulled out.
8.Wash your hands with soap and water.