On which side of the bed should the catheter bag be placed?

Placing the catheter bag on the same side as the resident is lying on is important for a few reasons. This practice helps to ensure that the bag remains lower than the level of the bladder, which is essential for preventing backflow and reducing the risk of urinary tract infections. Keeping the bag positioned correctly also minimizes the chances of kinks or pressure on the tubing that could obstruct urine flow.

Additionally, positioning the catheter bag on the same side as the resident provides ease of access for monitoring and emptying the bag when necessary, which is crucial for maintaining proper hygiene and care. This approach promotes the comfort and safety of the resident while ensuring that all catheter-related protocols are followed appropriately.

Other placements, such as the left or right side of the bed, or at the foot of the bed, can potentially create complications. If the bag is placed too far away from the resident's side, it may lead to issues with drainage and increase the risk of infection due to improper positioning.