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Urinary catheterisation in labour

Epidural with inability to void, retention, before CS or instrumental birth.

Source: NICE NG235

Steps

  1. Explain; aseptic no-touch technique.
  2. Separate labia; clean front to back; lidocaine gel.
  3. 12–14 Fr catheter until urine flows, then 2 cm more.
  4. Inflate balloon with 10 ml water; record residual.
Deflate the balloon before an instrumental birth.
A summary for trained clinicians. Always check the full guideline, the patient in front of you and your hospital's protocol. Spotted an error? Tell us.