Urine Leaking
The catheter may not be inserted far enough, may be blocked or the bladder may be having a contraction.
No Urine During Catheterization
The catheter may not be inserted far enough (especially in boys), your child may not be drinking adequate fluids, the catheter may be blocked or urine may already have leaked out.
Blood in the Catheter
It usually indicates a mild bladder or urethral irritation. It will usually clear by itself. If blood persists or is associated with difficulty in passing the catheter, contact your doctor. You should never have to force a catheter into the bladder.
Pushing the Catheter in Too Far
No, you cannot puncture a hole through the bladder. It is a very strong, tough muscle. The catheter will just coil up inside the bladder if it is pushed in too far.
Catheterization During School Hours
Get a watch with an alarm on it or have her / him write a secret message to themselves and tape it on his / her desk or lunch box. Tell the teacher so that your child can have silent permission to leave the classroom to go to the bathroom at the scheduled time. The school may need a note from your doctor.
Positive Urine Culture
Most people who catheterize have bacteria in their bladders and still feel well. The presence of bacteria alone does not mean an active infection is present. If the urine culture is positive and your child is feeling well, treatment may not be necessary.
Constipation and the Urinary Tract
Yes. If constipation is a continuing problem, the bladder does not have enough room to function properly. Let your doctor know if this is a continuing problem.
For additional information on this or any Health Topic, please call the Family Resource Center, 513-636-7606, or your pediatrician.
