Catheter securement devices are crucial for anyone who wears a catheter as they can prevent accidental dislodgement which reduces pain, infection, like catheter-associated urinary tract infection (CAUTI), and trauma to the urethra. Using a securement device ensures that your catheter stays in place maintaining proper function. Choosing the appropriate securement device can prevent serious complications. The wrong device can cause discomfort, infection and even damage.
What is a Catheter Securement Device?
A catheter securement device is a medical dressing that firmly attaches drainage tubes or urinary catheters to the skin to prevent tugging on the catheter from movement or dislodgment. It’s important that these devices are low-irritant adhesives and need to be soft, are able to be repositioned but also skin-friendly. The key function of a catheter securement device is to prevent dislodgement, reduce trauma caused by tugging on the insertion site and enhance comfort for your care recipient.
The Risks of Poor Securement
Poor catheter securement significantly increases the chance of injury and infection. Things like CAUTIs and Medical Adhesive-Related Skin Injury (MARSI) can occur, leading to infection and tissue injuries. If the securement of a catheter isn’t properly done, ‘pistoning’ may occur which is where the catheter moves in and out pushing bacteria into the urethra. Poorly secured catheters can also lead to skin injuries where the mechanism may cause friction and pulling leading to inflammation, redness and tissue damage. Accidental tugging due to poorly secured catheters can result in trauma to the urethra and may result in bleeding and bladder spasms. Not only does poor securement of catheters increase your risk of infection and injury but it can also result in the catheter becoming blocked and not draining the bladder properly. Kinking of tubes and encrustation can stop urine flow. This can also increase the risk of infection and create a urine backflow.
Proper securement uses devices such as tape or specialised holders to keep the catheter stable and prevent movement. This helps maintain a closed, uninterrupted drainage system, which is essential for reducing the risk of serious complications.
Key Features to Look For
When choosing a catheter securement device, look for a skin-friendly, hypoallergenic adhesive that protects delicate skin while still providing reliable hold. Using a securement device that isn’t gentle on the skin can result in allergic reactions, tissue damage and skin irritation. The device should be able to hold catheter tubes securely in place, ideally through features like a swivel clamp or double strap to prevent tugging or dislodgement. A low-profile, flexible design improves comfort during daily movement and reduces bulk under clothing. Finally, choose a device that allows easy removal and re-application without damaging the skin or leaving residue, making routine catheter care for care recipients and carers simpler and safer.
How to Fit & Use a Securement Device
When fitting a catheter securement device, begin by preparing the skin — cleanse and dry the area thoroughly, then clean the site where the securement will go and let the skin dry completely before applying the device. Urocare’s Uro-Prep Skin Protecting Wipes is formulated to create a protective film on the skin, shielding it from harsh adhesives.
Next, choose a securement site (such as the upper thigh or lower abdomen, as appropriate) and ensure there is enough slack in the catheter tubing, at least a little “give” between the insertion site and the securement point, so normal movement does not place tension on the catheter.
Then apply the securement device carefully: peel back the adhesive backing and press the securement pad smoothly onto the skin without creases, ensuring firm contact. For devices with a retainer or clip (rather than simple tape), place the catheter into the retainer before fixing the adhesive pad, then close the clip or tab to hold the catheter securely.
Once fitted, regularly check the skin under and around the securement for redness, soreness, irritation or breakdown — especially if the device stays on for several days. If the adhesive begins to peel or skin becomes sore, it is time to gently remove and replace the securement device. Remove the device carefully by lifting a corner and peeling it off slowly; for adhesive securements designed for extended wear, a gentle adhesive-removing wipe may help avoid skin damage.
Finally, after removal monitor catheter function and comfort: check that the tubing lies in a gentle curve (not kinked), the drainage bag remains below bladder level, and that there is no tugging or pulling when the person moves. Re-secure the catheter if needed before reattaching the drainage bag or going about daily activities.
Real-Life Tips for Comfort
Catheter securement devices can greatly improve day-to-day comfort, especially when paired with a few simple real-life habits. To prevent accidental tugging, avoid pulling on the tubing when standing up or sitting down, giving yourself time to adjust your position before moving. Creating small loops in the tubing allows for natural movement and reduces tension on the insertion site. It’s also important to inspect the skin around the catheter each day for any redness, irritation, or discomfort so that issues can be addressed early. For added stability, particularly if you’re active or frequently on the move, using a catheter securement device helps keep the tubing in place, protects the site, and supports overall comfort and confidence.
When to Replace & Seek Help
Catheter securement devices should be replaced and medical help sought whenever there are signs that the device is no longer functioning properly or the skin is becoming compromised. Indicators of adhesive failure, such as edges lifting or the device no longer holding the catheter firmly, mean it should be changed promptly to prevent accidental pulling or displacement. Likewise, any signs of skin breakdown, including redness, soreness, or open areas, require attention to avoid infection or further irritation. Increased discomfort, leaking around the insertion site, or partial dislodgement of the device or catheter are all signals that immediate reassessment is needed. Addressing these issues early helps maintain catheter stability, protects skin integrity, and ensures safe, effective therapy.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right catheter securement device is essential for maintaining both safety and comfort in everyday life. Proper securement helps prevent serious complications such as infection, skin injury and accidental dislodgement, all while supporting reliable catheter function. By selecting a device that is gentle on the skin, easy to apply and secure enough to withstand daily movement, care recipients and carers can significantly reduce risks and improve overall comfort. Pairing the right urology products with good daily habits, such as checking the skin, avoiding tension on tubing and replacing the device at the first sign of wear, ensures that catheter care remains smooth, safe and effective. With informed choices and consistent monitoring, catheter securement can become a manageable, confidence-building part of ongoing health care.