Urinary Catheters: Types, Uses, and Care Tips

This blog gives informative piece details how urinary catheters aid in managing urine drainage across various medical scenarios, highlighting specific types like Foley and intermittent catheters. It also offers practical insights into hygiene practices and preventive measures to ensure safe and effective catheter use.

What are Urinary Catheters?

Urination is a regular bodily function essential for waste and fluid removal. In cases where natural urination is difficult, catheters help by draining urine. They are also used pre-surgery to manage urine output. The type and duration of catheter use vary based on individual health needs. A urinary catheter is a flexible tube inserted into the body to collect and drain urine into a storage bag. These catheters are typically made from materials like rubber, plastic, or silicone, and come in various sizes to accommodate different patient needs.

Why are urinary catheters used?

A urethral catheter is employed in various situations where natural urine passage is impeded or impractical. It aids in draining urine due to obstructions like urethral scarring or prostate enlargement, assists those with bladder weakness or nerve damage affecting urination, and facilitates bladder drainage during surgeries or childbirth with epidural anesthesia. Additionally, it can administer medications directly into the bladder during treatments like chemotherapy for bladder cancer and serve as a solution for urinary incontinence when other treatments are ineffective. The duration of catheter use varies, ranging from short-term removal before hospital discharge to longer-term or permanent placement as required.

Types of Urinary Catheters?

There are three main types of urinary catheters:

Indwelling Catheter: An indwelling urethral catheter remains inside the bladder and can be used temporarily or long-term. It collects urine through a tube attached to a drainage bag, which may be secured to the leg for discreet wear under clothing. The catheter is typically inserted through the urethra, the tube that carries urine from the bladder, or sometimes through a small hole in the lower belly under medical supervision. It features a small balloon inflated at the end to prevent it from slipping out, which is deflated when the catheter needs removal.

Condom catheters: They are designed for men experiencing urinary incontinence. Unlike traditional catheters inserted into the penis, a condom-like device is fitted over the penis. A tube extends from this device to a drainage bag, facilitating urine collection. It's important to replace the condom catheter daily to maintain hygiene and prevent complications.

Intermittent catheters: They are used on an as-needed basis or when continuous use of a catheter bag isn't necessary. They are inserted into the bladder to drain urine and then removed after use. This method allows flexibility depending on the individual's needs, such as the volume of urine to be drained or the specific medical condition requiring catheterization.

How do you care for a urinary catheter?

To properly care for an indwelling urethral catheter, clean the catheter exit site and the catheter itself with soap and water every day. Additionally, clean the area after each bowel movement to prevent infections.

For a suprapubic catheter, clean the abdominal opening and the tube with soap and water daily, then cover it with dry gauze.

To help prevent infections, drink plenty of fluids; consult your healthcare provider for the recommended amount.

Always wash your hands before and after handling the drainage device. Ensure the outlet valve does not touch anything, and if it gets dirty, clean it with soap and water.

Urine leakage around the urethral catheter may be caused by:

• A blocked or kinked catheter
• A catheter that is too small in diameter
• Bladder spasms
• Constipation
• An incorrectly sized balloon
• Urinary tract infections

What can be the complications?

Complications of urethral catheter use can include:

• Allergy or sensitivity to latex
• Bladder stones
• Blood infections (septicemia)
• Blood in the urine (hematuria)
• Kidney damage (typically with long-term use)
• Urethral injury
• Urinary tract or kidney infections
• Bladder cancer (primarily after long-term use)

Contact your healthcare provider if you experience:

• Persistent bladder spasms
• Bleeding into or around the catheter
• Fever or chills
• Significant urine leakage around the catheter
• Skin sores around a suprapubic catheter
• Stones or sediment in the catheter or drainage bag
• Swelling of the urethra around the catheter
• Urine with a strong odor, or that is thick or cloudy
• Very little or no urine draining from the catheter despite adequate fluid intake.