What are urinary catheters and what are its types

A urinary catheter is a partially flexible and hollow pipe-like tube that collects urine from the human bladder and collects them in a drainage bag. Urinary catheters are available in varied types and sizes. It is made out of the following

• plastic (PVC)
• rubber
• Silicone

A urinary catheter is required by people who cannot empty their bladder on their own. If the urine gets stored in the bladder and cannot be emptied, it will create pressure in the kidneys. Increase in pressure can even cause kidney failure. The result is dangerous and can damage the kidneys permanently. Most catheters are used until one regains the natural ability to urinate without any external support which is generally a matter of short time. However, people with some severe injury or illness or any permanent injury might have to use catheters permanently or for a long period. Care of the patient with a urinary catheter differs from person to person.

Urinary catheters are of three main types

• Indwelling catheters
• External catheters
• Short-term catheters

Indwelling catheters

These are also known as urethral catheters or Suprapubic catheters. They are placed in the bladder and are referred to as the Foley catheter. Indwelling catheters can be used for both long and short time usage. These catheters are inserted into the bladder through the urethra. At times a small hole is made in the abdomen from where the catheter is inserted into the bladder. A balloon is inflated at the end of the catheter with water which prevents the pipe from falling off. The balloon can be deflated when removing the catheter.

External catheters

An external catheter is also known as a condom catheter. This type of catheter is placed outside the patient’s body. This catheter is typically used by men who do not face urinary retention problems but suffer from mental disabilities or serious functional like dementia. This device has the structure of a condom and is placed over the penis head. A tube is connected from the device to a bag for drainage. The risk of infection is less in case of external catheters than indwelling catheters. The device needs to be replaced every day however few are designed for long time usage.

Intermittent or short-term catheters

Patients might need this catheter for a short time until the bladder empties after a surgery. After the bladder starts emptying the intermittent catheter naturally must be removed. This is also known as an in-and-out catheter. At times People are taught how to apply the catheter on their own or by taking the help of a caregiver. It is inserted through a hole in the abdomen or the urethra.

1. Pain around the groin or lower part of the tummy.
2. Confusion
3. Have a high fever.
4. Feeling cold and shivery
5. Antibiotics are available to take care of the patient with urinary catheter infections.

Urinary catheters can cause an infection in the bladder, urethra or at times in the kidney. These types of infections are referred to as UTIs or urinary tract infections. Urinary tract infections occurring from catheters are a very common infection that affects patients especially during their stay in the hospital. Indwelling catheters are more prone to infections than the other types.

Some other risks associated when taking care of the patient with a urinary catheter

1. Stomach cramps that are bladder spasms are quite common in people who have a catheter inserted in their bladder. This pain is due to the bladder that tries to squeeze the balloon. There are medications available for reducing the intensity and frequency of the pain and spasms.
2. Leakage can occur around the catheter which is another problem. This happens when one opens the bowels. Leakage can be a sign of blockage which needs to be checked immediately.
3. Debris and blood is another issue that can exist in the catheter. This could again lead to blockage.
4. Injury to the urethra can also occur in a few cases and can cause pain.

How Care24 can help in taking care of the patient with a urinary catheter  

The process of urinary catheterization is quite complex. But Care24 has tried its best to make the entire process smooth and easy for everyone. Professionals at Care24 offer professional support for urinary catheterization in homes keeping in mind the patient’s comfort. They understand the tough time of the patients and the difficulties they have to face when under urinary catheterization at home. The family members are also anxious, and Care24 tries to smooth out everything for them. They make the post-hospitalization stage an easy one for the patients. One can even customize their programs as per their need and receive high-quality services from Care24.