The board authorizes that qualified staff provide for clean, intermittent bladder catheterization (CIC) of students or assisted self-catheterization in conformance to rules adopted by the state board of nursing.

Catheterization is authorized under the following conditions:

1. A parent, legal guardian or other person having legal control over the student file a written, current and unexpired request that the district provide for the catheterization of the student;
2. A licensed physician of the student files a written, current and unexpired request that catheterization of the student be provided for during the hours when school is in session or the hours when the student is under the supervision of school officials.
3. A registered nurse provides written, current and unexpired instructions regarding catheterization which states which staff members are designated to provide for catheterization and a description of the nature and extent of any supervision that is required.
4. Any staff member who is authorized to provide for catheterization must receive training from a registered nurse consistent with the rules of the state board of nursing.  Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) are trained to provide catheterization as part of their professional preparation and are not subject to this training requirement.

Employees (except licensed nurses) who have not previously agreed in writing to perform clean, intermittent bladder catheterization as a specific part of their job description may file a written letter of refusal to perform catheterization. The employee’s refusal may not serve as grounds for discharge, nonrenewal or any other action adversely affecting the employee’s status.

The district and its staff and the staff member who provides for catheterization in substantial compliance with this policy and the rules of the state board of nursing will not be liable in any criminal action or for civil damages arising from providing catheterization. The district may discontinue catheterization service for a student without being liable so long as the affected parents/guardians are given advance oral/written notice. 

Legal References

RCW 28A.210.255 Provision of health services in public and private schools – Employee job description

RCW 28A.210.280 Catheterization of public and private school students

RCW 28A.210.290 Catheterization of Public and Private School Students – Immunity from liability

WAC 246-840-820 Provision for clean, intermittent catheterization in schools

Cross References 2161 – Special Education and Related Services for Eligible Students

Management Resources

2014 – December Issue
2003 – December Issue
2003 – June Issue

Classification Critical 12.14

La Center School District
Adoption Date: March 27th, 2007; Revised: July 28, 2026