What is a key consideration when caring for a patient with a catheter?

In the context of caring for a patient with a catheter, ensuring the catheter is not kinked is a key consideration. When a catheter becomes kinked or blocked, it can obstruct the flow of urine, leading to a variety of complications, including urinary retention, bladder distension, and increased risk of infection. Maintaining a clear and unobstructed catheter ensures proper drainage, promotes patient comfort, and helps prevent potential complications that could arise from improper catheter management.

The other considerations, while important, do not hold the same level of priority in the daily management of a catheter. Changing the catheter daily is not standard practice; catheters are typically changed based on specific protocols or when clinically indicated, rather than on a strict daily schedule. Allowing the patient to move freely is important for overall patient comfort and mobility, but it must be balanced with ensuring the catheter remains properly positioned to prevent kinking. Reducing fluid intake is generally not a recommended approach as it could lead to dehydration and other related health issues; adequate hydration is crucial for patients with catheters to support kidney function and bladder health.