A urinary catheter is used by patients who have bladder issues, have some kind of infection in their urinary tract, or cannot pass their urine. A catheter is a hollow, partially flexible tube, that collects urine from the bladder, passes it through it, and collects it in a drainage urine bag. The urinary catheter is very beneficial for people having trouble walking and are bedridden and cannot move or wake up to pass their urine, the doctors suggest such patients use a catheter which eases their life a lot. These urinary catheters are usually made up of rubber, plastic (PVC), silicon, etc.
Why are the urinary catheters necessary?
The patients facing such issues with their bladder are suggested to get a catheter because it helps the patients who are not able to empty their bladder, it collects the urine from the bladder and collects it in the urine bag. It is considered necessary for those kinds of patients who are not able to empty their bladder on their own because if the bladder is not emptied the remaining urine can build up pressure in the kidneys and can even cause failure of one or both kidneys.
Catheters are necessary until the patient is not able to pass their urine on their own, it is in some cases used for a longer period by people of older age and an injured person who is not able to move on their own and not able to walk properly or have control over their passage of the urine.
What are the types of Urinary Catheters?
The main types of urinary catheters are:
- Indwelling Catheters ( urethral or suprapubic catheters)
An indwelling silicone urine catheter is directly placed in the bladder, they are best suited for both long-term and short-term use. The catheter is placed into the bladder through the urethra by the nurse known as the urethral catheter, whereas in some cases a small hole is made in the abdomen through which the tube of the catheter is placed into the bladder directly called the suprapubic catheter.
- External Catheters( condom Catheter)
These are the special kind of catheters that are placed outside the body, they are usually suggested for patients who do not have urine retention problems but have functional or mental disabilities to pass the urine. They are typically for the patients with a penis.
These are the devices that look exactly like the condom, but they have a tube attached to it that transfers the urine from the condom-like device to the urine bag.
- Short-term Catheter( Intermittent Catheter )
This short-term catheter is usually used after the patients have gone under surgery, it is only used till the bladder is emptied, after which the health professionals remove the catheter. These catheters could also be used in a home setting, where the people are trained to apply and remove the catheter through the urethra or the hole incision in the abdomen.
How Your Leg Bag Works
Urine passes from your bladder through the catheter into the urine bag.
- The leg bag will be attached to you throughout the day, allowing you to move around freely. It can be discreetly hidden under skirts, dresses, or pants, and is available in various sizes and styles.
- At night, switch to a bedside bag with a larger capacity.
Where to Place Your Leg Bag
- Attach your leg bag to your thigh using Velcro or elastic straps.
- Ensure the bag is always positioned lower than your bladder to prevent urine from flowing back into your bladder.
Steps for Emptying Your Leg Bag
- Wash your hands thoroughly.
- Keep the urine bag just beneath your hip or bladder as you empty it.
- Hold the bag over the toilet or the special container your doctor provided.
- Open the spout at the bottom of the urine bag and empty it properly.
- Avoid letting the bag touch the rim of the toilet or container.
- Clean the spout
- Close the spout tightly.
- Wash your hands again.
Conclusion
A silicone urine catheter is a crucial aid for individuals who have difficulty passing urine. Various types of catheters are available, and it is essential to consult a doctor to determine the most suitable type for one’s needs. One common complication associated with catheter use is an increased risk of urinary tract infections (UTIs). However, this risk can be minimized by maintaining good personal hygiene, properly caring for the catheter, and learning how to use the equipment correctly.
