After washing around the meatus and the catheter, what is the next step in catheter care?

Rinsing the meatus and the catheter after washing is essential for effective catheter care. This step helps to remove any soap or cleaning solution residue, which could potentially irritate the skin or cause infection. It ensures that the area is clean and free of contaminants that might have been introduced during the washing process. This practice is critical in maintaining hygiene and preventing complications related to catheter use.

Applying antiseptic ointment is not typically the next step, as it is important to ensure that the area is rinsed and free of any cleaning agents before applying anything else. Putting on a new catheter is not necessary unless there is a specific indication for catheter replacement. Similarly, covering the area with a sterile dressing is not generally part of routine catheter care after cleaning; it's usually reserved for specific types of wounds or when there is a risk of contamination.