Urinary catheter

-Catheters come in a large variety of sizes, materials (latex, silicone,Teflon) and
types (Foley catheter, straight catheter, coude tipcatheter).
-It is recommended to use the smallest size of catheter,if possible. Some people may
require larger catheters to control leakage of urine around the catheter or if the
urine is thick and bloody or contains large amounts of sediment.
(Be aware that larger catheters are more likely to cause damage to the urethra)
-Some people have developed allergies or sensitivity to latex after long-term latex
catheter use. These people should use the silicone or Teflon catheters.

HOW TO CARE FOR YOUR CATHETER

Most experts advise against routine changing (replacing) of the catheters. If the catheter is clogged, painful, or infected it may require immediate replacement. Routine care of the indwelling catheter MUST include daily cleansing of the urethral area (where the catheter exits the body) and the catheter itself with soap and water. The area should also be thoroughly cleansed after all bowel movements to prevent infection. Experts no longer recommend using antimicrobial ointments around the catheter as they have not been shown to actually reduce infections.

HOW TO INSERT A CATHETER (MEN)

1. Assemble all equipment
2. Wash your hands.
3. Apply the sterile gloves.
4. Lubricate the catheter.
5. Hold the penis on the sides, perpendicular to the body. Stretch the penis away from the body.
6. Begin to gently insert and advance the catheter.
7. You will meet resistance when you reach the level of the external sphincter.
Try to relax by deep breathing, and continue to advance the catheter.
8. Once the urine flow starts, continue to advance the catheter to the level of the "Y" connector. Hold the catheter in place while you inflate the balloon.

Caution : Some men have developed urethral injuries due to the balloon being inflated in the urethra. Care must be taken to ensure the catheter is in the bladder. You may try to irrigate the catheter with a few ounces of sterile water. If the solution does not easily return, you may not have the catheter far enough in the bladder.

9. Secure the catheter, and attach the drainage bag.

HOW TO REMOVE A CATHETER

Indwelling catheters may be removed in 2 ways. One method is to attach a
small syringe to the inflation port on the side of the catheter. Draw out
all the fluid until you are unable to withdraw any more fluid. Slowly
pull the catheter out until it is completely removed.

Some health care providers instruct their patient's to cut the inflation
port tubing before it reaches the main tubing of the catheter. After all
the water has drained out, slowly pull out the catheter until it is
completely removed. Be careful not to cut the catheter anywhere else.
If you cannot remove the catheter with only slight pulling, notify your
health care provider immediately.

Notify your health care provider if you are unable to urinate within 8
hours after catheter removal, or if your abdomen becomes distended and
painful.