| Problem | Cause | Try |
| Difficulty inserting catheter | Muscles tighten due to tension or anxietyInadequate lubricationWrong angle of insertionStricture | Use deep breathing techniquesAdd lubricationAlter positioningWithdraw slightly and try againNever force – seek help if unresolved. |
| Pain/ Discomfort | Inadequate lubricationUsing too much force Wrong catheter sizeInfection or inflammation | Add lubricationSlow gentle insertion and removalSeek advice on catheter sizing and typeTreat infection or urethral trauma |
| No urine drainage | Catheter tip not in bladderBlocked catheter tip (mucosa or debris)Bladder empty | Insert catheter further or trial longer lengthRotate catheter gentlyConsider reducing catheter frequencySeek help if unresolved |
| Blood in urine or on catheter | Urethral traumaInfectionStricture/false passage | Gentle technique/ adequate lubricationIncrease fluid intakeMinor bleeding normal initially, but persistent or heavy bleeding warrants attention |
| Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)Dysuria, frequency, urgency, offensive smell, cloudy urine, haematuria, temperature, chills, back/flank pain. | Poor hygiene/ poor technique Reusing cathetersIncomplete bladder emptyingInadequate catheterisation schedule | Review hygiene and catheter techniqueUse single-use or sterilised cathetersReview catheter schedule and ensure emptyingMonitor signs and seek help if infection suspected |
| Leaking between catheterisations | Not catheterising enoughBladder spasmsIncomplete emptying | Increase catheter frequencyDiscuss medications with clinician Completely empty bladder |
| When to seek immediate help | Inability to insert catheter, severe pain or bleeding, suspected infection, no drainage after repeated attempts. |
