If you have recently started using catheters, you may have many questions. It is always better to find the answer to your questions by consulting your healthcare professional or urologist. One way to learn more about your UI medical devices is to research them or read informational content posted on credible platforms.
Here we have answered some of the most asked questions related to catheters to help you gain more knowledge.
Answers To Common Questions About Catheters
What Does The Word Catheter Mean?
An indwelling catheter is a tiny tube used to drain urine from the bladder. You can choose different catheters based on your UI condition. Here are the most common types of urinary catheters.
- Catheter Kits With Other Supplies
- Closed System Catheters To Avoid Hand-Touch Contamination
- Coudé Tip Catheters
- Hydrophilic Catheters
- Pocket Catheters
- Pre-Lubricated Catheters
- Straight Catheters
- Travel Catheters
Catheter supplies vary based on the type of materials. You may find catheters made of PVC vinyl, red rubber latex, POBE, and silicone. If you purchase catheters from a credible supplier, you may get many alternatives, such as latex-free, DEHP-free, and high-grade phthalate-containing (BPA) catheters.
Another typical kind of indwelling catheter is the Foley catheter. To drain the bladder, you can insert its flexible tube made of rubber, plastic, or polyethylene.
How Do Catheters Function?
Self-catheterization is a simple process that does not take more than five to ten minutes if you know how to do it correctly. You can use disposable gloves to protect against germ spread. Also, properly wash your hands with disinfectant liquid and water before insertion.
Apply a water-soluble lubricant to the tube before carefully inserting it into the urethra. The urine starts flowing through the tube (catheter) when it enters the bladder. Remove the catheter cautiously as it stops flowing.
If you’re using a urinary catheter first time, learning how to use the device from a healthcare professional is essential. Using urinary catheters might be more accessible in the beginning. However, it becomes easier with practice over time.
Why Should I Use Catheters?
If your bladder can’t contain all of your urine or you can’t empty it, you may need an intermittent urinary catheter. The device is designed to drain the bladder without leakage. You may need self-catheterization if you have one of the following conditions:
- Bladder Cancer
- Enlarged Prostate (BPH)
- Interstitial Cystitis
- Multiple Sclerosis
- Neurogenic Bladder
- Spinal Cord Injury
- Urinary Bladder Retention
- Urinary Incontinence(Overflow Incontinence)
How Can I Determine That A Catheter Is In My Bladder?
Urine flowing out of the catheter as it enters your bladder is a sign that it is in your bladder. The device keeps emptying the bladder until it is empty.
How Long Does A Catheter Take To Empty The Bladder?
The amount of urine you need to release and the catheter’s French size will eventually determine how long it will take to empty the bladder. The typical duration is between a few seconds and a minute.
What Is The Recommended Catheter Use?
Your specific medical requirements will determine how to proceed. If you’re unsure, ask the doctor who is administering the medication.
When Should I Remove The Intermittent Catheter?
Once the urine flow has stopped, you can take out the intermittent catheter and discard it.
What Risks Are Associated With Using A Catheter?
After withdrawing the catheter, you can experience a minor burning sensation, but this will go away as you get used to the medical device. The more catheter-use sessions you complete, the more at ease you’ll feel.
Additionally, the risk of urinary tract infections is high if you reuse the catheter. Consult your doctor if you experience any UTI symptoms, such as persistent urethral burning, an increased need to urinate, a fever, or murky urine. Using your catheter only one time can significantly lower the risk of developing UTIs.
Intermittent Catheterization Benefits
Intermittent catheterization is an effective and excellent alternative to a continuously draining catheter if you cannot empty your bladder. Long-term urine retention in the bladder might cause a UTI or bloated bladder.
Catheterization can keep these issues under control. Plus, it helps people with urine incontinence manage the condition. You can lead a more active lifestyle by taking the catheter out once the bladder is empty.
Summary
Your doctor may advise intermittent catheterization if you have bladder issues or incontinence. Ensure you have sufficient information about the UI medical device before using them. If you’re looking for quality catheters for purchase, check out Active Life Medical Products, as they have a wide variety of products.
How Active Life Medical Products Can Help With Catheter Supplies
You need a trusted catheter supplier when you require catheter supplies. Active Life Medical Products makes ordering the entire catheter supply process easy. Our Product Specialists can help you get your prescribed catheter covered through most insurances. Everything will be delivered directly to your front door.
Call Active Life Medical Products at (800) 319-2336 to place your order.
