Understanding Catheter For Intermittent Catheterization

For people with inability to voluntarily control urination, there is a need to explore what medical care there is to solve their problem. For this reason, understanding intermittent catheterization is very useful information for these people because it introduces one of the most common ways to solve the incontinence problem.

What Is Catheterization

A catheter is a thin, flexible tube made from latex, silicone, PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride), etc., which is inserted into the bladder, a blood vessel, or other body cavity or duct. Catheterization is a procedure that involves the insertion of a catheter. Catheterization serves various purposes such as draining fluids, delivering medications, or performing diagnostic tests.

A urinary catheter is inserted into the bladder through the urethra to drain urine. Catheterization using a urinary catheter helps patients with problems such as urinary retention, bladder dysfunction, etc. A vascular catheter is inserted into a blood vessel to deliver medications or perform diagnostic procedures such as angiography.

What Is Intermittent Catheterization

In intermittent catheterization, a urinary catheter is inserted into the patient’s bladder to drain urine from it on an as-needed basis, rather than continuously. It is indwelling catheterization that involves a urinary catheter kept in the bladder for extended periods or continuously, usually days or weeks

Intermittent catheterization is performed periodically, as needed, to empty the bladder and prevent urinary retention. By contrast, during indwelling catheterization there is a urine collection bag connected to the catheter that collects urine as it is produced.

When to Use Intermittent Catheterization

The follow case illustrates when intermittent catheterization is used instead of indwelling catheterization.

Short-term bladder dysfunction: If a patient is experiencing temporary bladder dysfunction, such as after surgery or due to a medical condition that is expected to improve, intermittent catheterization may be used as a temporary solution until the patient's bladder function returns to normal.

When to Use Indwelling Catheterization

If a patient requires continuous bladder drainage, then indwelling catheterization is used, for instance, in the following cases.

Spinal cord injuries or neurological disorders: Patients with spinal cord injuries or neurological disorders that affect bladder function may require indwelling catheterization for long-term or even permanent bladder drainage.

Patient preference or inability to perform intermittent catheterization: Some patients may prefer indwelling catheterization due to the convenience or may be physically unable to perform intermittent catheterization on their own.

Intermittent Catheterization Products

The medical devices used for intermittent catheterization are called intermittent catheters. Please see their descriptions below.

Straight tip catheters

These are the most common type of intermittent catheterization catheter. They have a straight tip and are available in a range of sizes and materials.

Illustrating what a straight tip catheter is (offered by Hangzhou Bever Medical Device Co., Ltd.)

Coude tip catheters

Coude tip catheters have a curved tip that is designed to navigate around obstructions in the urethra, such as a stricture or a prostate enlargement. They are often used by patients who have difficulty inserting a straight tip catheter.

A typical Coude tip catheter from Hangzhou Bever Medical Device Co., Ltd.

Hydrophilic coated catheters

Hydrophilic coated catheters are coated with a substance that becomes slippery when wet. This makes them easier to insert and can reduce discomfort during the catheterization process. There is a sterile water sachet containing water applied to the catheter to activate the slippery property of the coat material.

A hydrophilic coated catheter

Closed system catheters

Closed system catheters are designed to reduce the risk of infection. They feature a closed drainage bag that is attached to the catheter, eliminating the need to transfer urine from the catheter to an open container.

When choosing an intermittent catheter it is important to keep in mind that the catheter must have sterile features, is made with medical grade materials, and has been approved by certifying organizations. Finding a competent, qualified manufacturer usually addresses these concerns, for example Hangzhou Bever Medical Device Co., Ltd.’s many years of experience offers safe and effective catheterization solutions (www.bevermedical.com).

Uses of Intermittent Catheterization

If the patient has any of the following medical conditions, their natural ability to urinate might be impaired to such a degree that intermittent catheterization needs to be used to solve the problem.

Neurogenic bladder

A condition caused by nerve damage, typically due to spinal cord injury, multiple sclerosis, or other neurological disorders.

Urinary retention

The inability to completely empty the bladder, often leading to discomfort, urinary frequency, and increased risk of infection.

Bladder dysfunction

Issues with the bladder's muscles or nerves that can affect its ability to store and release urine properly.

Intermittent Catheterization Use Instructions

Intermittent catheterization is a relatively straightforward procedure that can be performed by the individual themselves or with the assistance of a caregiver.

Preparation

As a preparation for intermittent catheterization, you need to have all necessary supplies ready, such as a sterile catheter, lubricant, a container for collecting urine, and cleaning supplies. Remember to wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before starting.

Cleaning the Urethra

Gently clean the urethral opening with soap and water or a recommended cleanser to reduce the risk of infection.

Lubrication

Apply a small amount of lubricant to the tip of the catheter to make insertion easier and more comfortable.

Insertion

Hold the urethral opening open slightly with one hand to assist with insertion; the other hand holds the catheter and inserts it into the urethra. Guide the catheter gently down the urethra until urine begins to flow.

Drainage

Allow the urine to drain into the collection container. It's essential to drain the bladder completely to prevent urine retention and reduce the risk of infection.

Removal

Withdraw the catheter from the urethra slowly. It should slide out smoothly, and do not use jerky movements during withdrawing lest it causes discomfort or injury to the patient.

Cleaning Up

Clean the urethral area again and dispose of the catheter and urine container properly. Wash your hands thoroughly after the procedure is finished.

Closing Remarks

The above different sections of the article have covered various aspects of the topic of understanding intermittent catheterization so that you can make informed decision about and can benefit optimally from this medical care means. We are glad if the article enhances your knowledge and improves your experiences.