The goal of cleaning a reusable intermittent catheter is to significantly reduce the microbial load, a process known as high-level disinfection, to prevent urinary tract infections (UTIs). Sterilization kills all microbes and bacterial spores and is not realistically achievable through methods at home. The procedures outlined apply specifically to intermittent catheters designed for reuse by the same individual and are intended to make the device safe for reinsertion.
Gathering Supplies and Safety Warnings
Preparation for reusing an intermittent catheter begins with washing your hands thoroughly with soap and water. Before reuse, confirm with your healthcare provider that your specific catheter type is designed for repeated cleaning, as not all materials tolerate disinfection. Supplies needed include mild, unscented liquid soap, clean tap water, a clean basin or container, and a designated clean towel or drying rack.
The choice of cleaning agents is important for safety, as certain household chemicals can damage the catheter material or cause severe urethral irritation. Never use concentrated cleaning agents, such as undiluted bleach, rubbing alcohol, or harsh detergents, as they can break down the catheter’s structure. Damage to the catheter surface, such as micro-fissures or a sticky texture, increases the risk of infection upon insertion. Always use diluted solutions and follow recommended soaking times precisely to ensure both material integrity and disinfection effectiveness.
Thorough Washing The Catheter
The first phase of cleaning is a mechanical process focused on removing organic debris and mucus, which is a prerequisite for effective disinfection. Immediately after use, the catheter should be rinsed under warm running water to flush out any residual urine or lubricant. Prompt action prevents organic material from drying onto the surface or inside the lumen, where it would be more difficult to remove later.
Wash the catheter’s entire surface, both inside and out, using a mild liquid soap, such as unscented dish soap. The cleaning should be a gentle, physical process, running the catheter between your fingers to ensure every part of the device is scrubbed without causing surface abrasion. The final step is exhaustive rinsing to remove all traces of soap residue, which can be highly irritating to the sensitive lining of the urethra. Flush the internal channel using a syringe or running water until the water runs completely clear.
High-Level Disinfection Methods
Once the catheter is physically clean and free of debris, the next step is high-level disinfection to reduce the microbial count. Two of the most common and effective methods used at home involve either heat or a diluted chemical soak. Both methods require the catheter to be fully submerged for a specific duration to be effective against potential pathogens.
Heat Disinfection
One reliable heat method is boiling, which leverages high temperatures to destroy microorganisms. Place the washed catheter in a pot of water, ensuring the water fully covers the device, and bring it to a rolling boil for approximately five to ten minutes. Monitor the process to ensure the catheter does not make direct contact with the bottom or sides of the pot, as this can cause the plastic to melt or warp. After the boiling time is complete, remove the catheter with a clean utensil and allow it to cool completely before handling.
Chemical Disinfection
Alternatively, a chemical soak can achieve high-level disinfection without the risk of heat damage. A mild vinegar solution is often used, typically prepared by mixing one part white vinegar with three parts clean water. Place the washed catheter into this solution and allow it to soak for about 30 minutes, ensuring the entire length of the device is submerged. For a more aggressive disinfectant, a very diluted bleach solution can be prepared by mixing one tablespoon of household bleach into one quart of clean water.
After soaking in either the vinegar or the bleach solution, the catheter must be thoroughly rinsed with clean water to remove all chemical residue. A final rinse with sterile water or distilled water is recommended to ensure no tap water mineral deposits or disinfectant chemicals remain on the surface. Adhering strictly to the prescribed dilution and soaking times is necessary, as incorrect concentrations can be ineffective or lead to material degradation.
Drying and Safe Storage Techniques
The final phase of the process focuses on preventing the re-contamination of the disinfected catheter before its next use. After the final rinse, the catheter must be completely air-dried in a clean environment, as storing a damp catheter promotes the growth of mold and bacteria. Hang the catheter vertically or lay it flat on a clean paper towel or drying rack away from the sink or toilet area.
Do not use a cloth towel to dry the catheter, as this can introduce lint or new bacteria onto the clean surface. Once the catheter is entirely dry, it should be stored in a clean, dedicated container, such as a fresh, zip-top plastic bag or a specialized catheter case. Keep the container in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight or excessive heat, which can cause the catheter material to degrade prematurely. Before each use, inspect the catheter for any physical signs of wear, such as cracking, stiffness, discoloration, or a rough texture, and discard the device immediately if any damage is noted.