Blood in the tubing (in the urine).
This is fairly common and could be related to recent surgery or irritation by the catheter. Drink plenty of fluids to keep the bladder flushed. If you see blood clots in the tubing or bag, that is okay as long as the catheter is draining. If clots obstruct the catheter and it stops draining you will need to have the catheter flushed out or changed. This can be done in the office during business hours or in the emergency room if it is after hours.

Sediment in the tubing or bag.
This is also common and has no significance.

Urine (or blood) leakage around the catheter.
Again, a common complaint. This occurs secondary to bladder spasms forcing urine out around the catheter. This is only a problem if the catheter stops draining completely. (see below)

Obstructed (non-draining) catheter.
This can occur due to blood clots, tissue, or sediment in the catheter. If your catheter stops draining and your bladder fills up (it will be uncomfortable) you will need it flushed or changed. Again, this can be done in the office or in the emergency room if the office is closed.

Catheter falls out.
This is a rare problem. There is a small balloon on the end of the catheter that is inside the bladder that keeps the catheter in place. Some movement of the catheter is common but the balloon would have to deflate for the catheter to come out. If your catheter does fall out and you cannot urinate, go to the office (or the emergency room after hours) to have it replaced. A very rare situation occurs if the catheter is removed with the balloon inflated. This will cause some bleeding from the prostate and urethra but it usually resolves in an hour or two.


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