What is the proper term for the procedure of cleaning a patient’s urinary catheter?

The correct term for the procedure of cleaning a patient’s urinary catheter is catheter care. This is an essential practice that involves maintaining the cleanliness of the urinary catheter to prevent infections and ensure comfort and safety for the patient. Proper catheter care includes regular cleaning of the catheter and its insertion site to minimize the risk of catheter-associated urinary tract infections (CAUTIs) and other complications.

While personal hygiene refers broadly to the cleanliness practices of individuals, it does not specifically address the care related to catheter management. Urinary hygiene also encompasses more general practices regarding urinary health but does not pinpoint the specific act of cleaning the catheter itself. Fluid management deals with the administration and monitoring of fluids and does not relate to the cleaning procedures associated with a urinary catheter. Thus, catheter care is the most precise term to describe the important practice of cleaning and maintaining a patient’s urinary catheter.