Urine Catheter Information

Types of Urinary Catheters:

1. Intermittent Catheters: Used temporarily and inserted only when needed to drain urine.

2. Indwelling (Foley) Catheters: Remain in place for longer periods, with a balloon at the tip to keep them in place.

3. Suprapubic Catheters: Inserted through a small hole in the abdomen directly into the bladder, often used for long-term catheterization.

Catheterization Procedure:

Male Catheterization:

The catheter is inserted through the urethra, which is longer in males (around 20 cm). Special care is needed due to the prostate gland and the length of the urethra.

Female Catheterization:

The urethra is shorter in females (about 4 cm), making the catheterization process quicker and generally easier. However, care is taken to ensure the catheter is properly positioned.

Procedure for Insertion:

Preparation:

Clean the genital area to reduce the risk of infection. Use sterile equipment, including gloves and the catheter.

Male Catheterization:

• Lubricate the catheter.
• Hold the penis at a right angle to the body and gently insert the catheter into the urethra.
• Continue advancing the catheter until urine begins to flow. Once the catheter reaches the bladder, it may be advanced slightly further.
• If using a Foley catheter, inflate the balloon with sterile water to secure it in the bladder.

Female Catheterization:

• Spread the labia and clean the area around the urethral opening.
• Lubricate the catheter.
• Insert the catheter into the urethra until urine begins to flow, and then advance slightly more.
• Secure the catheter as needed (for indwelling catheters).

Indications for Use:

• Urinary retention: Inability to empty the bladder naturally.
• Surgery: To keep the bladder empty during or after surgery.
• Prostate enlargement: Which can block urine flow in men.
• Neurological disorders: Such as spinal cord injuries, which impair bladder control.
• Incontinence: When it cannot be managed by other means.

Risks and Complications:

• Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): The most common complication, particularly with long-term use.
• Blockages: From sediment or blood clots in the catheter.
• Injury: Trauma to the urethra or bladder, particularly during insertion or removal.
• Bladder Spasms: Involuntary contractions of the bladder.

Care and Maintenance:

• Hygiene: Regular cleaning around the catheter site is essential to prevent infection.
• Drainage Bags: Must be kept below bladder level to prevent backflow of urine, which can cause infections.
• Changing Catheters: Indwelling catheters are typically changed every 2-4 weeks depending on the type and patient needs.

Male vs. Female Considerations:

Males: Longer urethra means a longer catheter is required, and care must be taken to avoid damage to the prostate or the delicate tissue of the urethra.

Females: Shorter urethra means quicker insertion but potentially higher risk of bladder infections due to proximity of the urethral opening to the vagina and anus.

Special Considerations:

• Children: Catheters come in smaller sizes, and the process requires extra care.
• Postoperative Patients: Close monitoring is needed to detect complications like bleeding or infection.

Alternatives:

• External Catheters: For males, a condom catheter can be placed over the penis to collect urine, reducing the risk of infection but less effective for managing complete incontinence.
• Intermittent Self-Catheterization: Some individuals can insert and remove catheters themselves, reducing the need for indwelling devices.