Rationale and key points

This article provides a step-by-step guide explaining how to prepare for and perform male urinary catheterisation in a safe, effective and supportive manner. Nurses undertaking this procedure must ensure they have the knowledge and skills to do so and work within the limits of their competence.

• Urethral catheterisation is an invasive procedure and carries a risk of infection. It should only be undertaken after thorough clinical assessment and when other alternatives have been considered.

• The procedure can be anxiety-provoking for the patient, so the nurse should explain what is involved and proceed carefully, while keeping the patient informed throughout.

• Due to the risk of catheter-associated urinary tract infection, it is important to regularly review the patient’s need to be catheterised and the catheter should be removed as soon as practically possible.

Reflective activity

‘How to’ articles can help to update your practice and ensure it remains evidence-based. Apply this article to your practice. Reflect on and write a short account of:

• How this article might improve your practice when planning and undertaking male urinary catheterisation.

• How you could use this information to educate nursing students or your colleagues on the procedure for male urinary catheterisation.