Urinary Catheters Made Simple: What You Need to Know
Greetings! Today, we’re going to explore urinary catheterisation, a medical procedure that helps people who have trouble peeing naturally. In this blog, we’ll learn about the different types of catheters—Intermittent Catheters, Indwelling Urinary Catheters, and Suprapubic Catheters. Additionally, we’ll also look at how these catheters are used and who can benefit from them.
Understanding Urinary Catheterisation:
Urinary catheterisation serves as a vital solution for those unable to empty their bladders naturally. This involves a catheter—a flexible tube—intervening when the body encounters difficulties. Furthermore, this intervention is crucial for individuals who, due to various medical conditions or situations, are unable to empty their bladders naturally.
Intermittent Catheterisation:
For those requiring scheduled bladder emptying, intermittent catheters are the go-to solution. This method is typically employed by individuals with conditions such as spinal cord injuries, urinary retention, or neurogenic bladder dysfunction. Moreover, it allows for periodic and controlled drainage, reducing the risk of complications associated with long-term catheter use.
Procedure:
First, the genital area is thoroughly cleaned to minimise infection risk.
Lubrication of the catheter helps ease the insertion process.
Once prepared, the catheter is gently inserted through the urethra into the bladder
Finally, once urine drainage is complete, the catheter is removed.
Indwelling Urinary Catheters :
Indwelling urinary catheters, (also known as Foley catheters) is commonly used when continuous urine drainage is necessary. These catheters feature a balloon at one end, which is inflated inside the bladder to secure the catheter in place. Typically, IDCs are often recommended for individuals with conditions such as spinal cord injuries, urinary retention, or those undergoing surgeries where normal bladder function is compromised.
Procedure:
To start, the genital area is meticulously cleansed to minimise infection risk.
Afterwards, The catheter, lubricated for ease of insertion, is threaded through the urethra into the bladder.
Finnaly, the balloon is inflated to secure the catheter in place.
Supra-pubic Catheters :
Suprapubic catheters provide an alternative route for urine drainage. This method involves a small incision in the lower abdomen, allowing direct access to the bladder. As a result, this method is suitable for individuals who cannot use traditional urethral catheters due to anatomical issues, strictures, or recurrent urinary tract infections.
Procedure:
First, a small incision is made in the lower abdomen.
Then, the catheter is inserted directly into the bladder through this incision.
Now, let’s look at an in-depth table of the three main types of urinary catheters in a more detailed way.
Type | Intermittent Catheterisation | Indwelling Urinary Catheter | Suprapubic Catheter |
Insertion Method | Inserted as needed, not left in place | Remains in the bladder continuously | Surgically inserted through the abdomen |
Purpose | Drains urine periodically | Drains urine continuously | Drains urine continuously |
Material | Usually made of soft plastic or rubber | Often made of latex or silicone | Made of silicone or latex |
Usage Duration | Used for a short duration (intermittently) | Left in place for a specified period | Long-term or permanent |
Insertion Frequency | Multiple times a day | Inserted once until removal | Inserted surgically |
Infection Risk | Lower risk, as not continuously in place | Higher risk due to continuous placement | Risk is present due to surgical insertion |
Mobility Impact | Allows more freedom of movement | May impact mobility due to tubing | Generally does not impact mobility |
Comfort Level | More comfortable during non-inserted times | May cause discomfort due to constant presence | Comfort varies based on individual |
Removal Process | Removed after each use | Removed after a designated period or as needed | Surgically removed or replaced as necessary |
Applicability | Commonly used for short-term bladder emptying | Frequently used in hospitalised or bedridden patients | Often used for individuals with chronic urinary issues |
Special Care | Less maintenance and care needed | Requires regular cleaning and monitoring | Surgical site and catheter require specific care |
Who Might Need Urinary Catheterisation :
Individuals with Spinal Cord Injuries.
Additionally, post-Surgery Patients experiencing temporary difficulties in normal bladder emptying.
Those with chronic medical conditions like multiple sclerosis or urinary retention.
Individuals with physical issues like blockages or narrow passages that make peeing difficult.
Urinary catheterisation, whether through intermittent, indwelling, or suprapubic catheters, is an important way to help people who have trouble peeing regularly. At Lotus Embrace, we offer special services in urinary catheterisation to make sure everyone gets the support they need to feel their best. Don’t hesitate to contact us – we’re here to provide the care you need, personalised just for you.
Click here for a referral and let Lotus Embrace be your trusted partner on your journey to improved health and comfort.
