Successfully applying a cath secure involves three simple steps:
Prep
Proper skin preparation is essential to the success of any cath secure tube holder.
Start by helping the patient to fully extend their hip. This will help to prevent undue traction in the catheter or medical tube. Then, thoroughly clean the application area with either alcohol or warm soapy water (for sensitive skin). It’s important to clean an area that’s larger than your chosen cath secure device and make sure the skin has completely dried before starting the application.
Peel and press
Next, peel the adhesive backing off the device. Position it on the upper front of the thigh and press both sides of the cath secure down firmly. It should stick comfortably to the patient’s skin.
Fasten
Finally, the last step is to fasten the medical tube to the device.
Start by placing the tab (or tabs) on the same side of the fastening strip. Position the tube at the base of the tab and wrap the tab around the tube in one complete rotation. Make sure the tube is wrapped quite tightly and, to secure it firmly in place, press the end of the loop onto the fastening strip.
The cath secure can stay in this position for up to a week before it will need replacing. To remove it, simply unfasten the hook-and-loop tabs to release the catheter – and peel the product off like a plaster. The adhesive is alcohol soluble. So if you find that removal is difficult or causing the patient discomfort, simply dampen the base with alcohol and it should peel away much easier.