Arizona Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Practice Test

During catheter care for a resident with an indwelling urinary catheter, how should the nurse aide clean the catheter?

1. Clean the catheter moving upward toward the lower body

2. Clean the catheter, starting at the meatus and moving downward, away from the lower body

3. Use alcohol wipes around the catheter site

4. Rinse the area with warm water only

The correct answer is: Clean the catheter, starting at the meatus and moving downward, away from the lower body

The correct approach for cleaning an indwelling urinary catheter is to start at the meatus and move downward, away from the lower body. This technique is essential for reducing the risk of infection. By cleaning in this direction, you help prevent bacteria that may be present around the meatus from moving further up the urethra, thereby minimizing the chance of introducing pathogens into the urinary tract. Using this method ensures that any contaminants are effectively drawn away from the body rather than pushing them into it. Maintaining a clean technique during this procedure is crucial for the comfort and health of the resident, especially considering the vulnerability of individuals with urinary catheters to urinary tract infections.