Caring for urinary equipment
Equipment used for urinary care should be cleaned regularly.
- The Foley bags and leg bags should be changed at least every month, and more often if needed.
- Urinary drainage bags should be cleaned after each use. It is important to clean the bags properly to prevent germs from causing infections.
Cleaning the leg bag
- Mix 1 tablespoon of bleach and 1/2 cup of water in a cup.
- Swish it around to mix and then pour it into a squeeze container or bottle.
- Empty all of the urine from the bag.
- Rinse bag with water for 10 seconds. Empty water into the toilet.
- Pour or squeeze about 2 tablespoons of the premixed bleach solution into the bag. Squeeze bag and allow bleach to get on all sides of the bag. Swish it around inside the bag for at least 30 seconds.
- Discard solution into the toilet.
- Place bag on a clean paper towel.
- Leave any clamps bag open until the next time the bag is used.
Cleaning a drainage cup
- Use the same premixed bleach solution.
- Swish it around for at least 30 seconds and pour out.
- Pour extra bleach and water mixture out into the toilet.
- The bag, cup, or urinal can be used for one month.
- Wash hands.