Complete Guide On Catheter Maintenance

catheter maintenance

Many of us suffer from urinary tract diseases, and it’s necessary to get the proper care services. When it comes to catheter care, there are many questions about how it can be treated and what process should be followed. Firstly, let’s understand the term catheterisation. It is a common practice performed by various hospitals and clinics to eliminate urinary tract issues.

This process is specific for patients who are unable to urinate independently due to surgeries or major illnesses. Urinary catheterisation maintains urinary function and handles healthcare conditions to normalise urination.

Are you concerned about your loved one’s catheter issues? This guide will provide complete information about catheter care and how catheter care support significantly improves the patient’s urinary problems.

Types of Urinary Catheter

There are two main types of urinary catheters i.e. intermittent & indwelling. Each type has its own features that make it different from others.

Catheters that are placed inside the bladder for a shorter time interval & taken out after it is empty are called intermittent. On the other hand, catheters that are placed inside for many days or weeks are indwelling.

Each has its own usage according to the individual needs. Many people go for indwelling as it is convenient and avoids repetitive procedures. However, inserting the catheter can be uncomfortable, but with time, people are used to this method.

Significance of Catheter

Many individuals have trouble passing urine. A catheter is a great alternative to get rid of urinary tract infections and make the process smoother. Here, we will discuss a few reasons for using a catheter.

● If you feel obstructed or have pain while peeing, the Catheter is connected to the tube that drains the bladder flow.

● If you are undergoing bladder weakness or nerve damage, you will face the issue. To eliminate such problems, catheter care is essential.

● To drain your bladder during childbirth, catheters are needed to expose the flow.

● Catheters are also used before, during, and/or after some types of surgery or operation. This care plan is especially effective in protecting the ovaries, wombs, etc.

● To pass the medicines directly into the bladder, catheter care is the top-notch choice to fulfil the care plans effectively.

Care Tips for Catheter At Home

Every care plan has its pros and cons. It has been found that long-term catheters lead to complications. To provide adequate complex care at home, hiring a caregiver gives you intense relief. They perform the care precisely with proper instructions. Let’s explore.

Gently Wash the Genital Areas

Effective cleaning of the genital area is essential to avoid further problems. Dry the area with a soft cloth. Caregivers take care of all your genital needs and keep it clean and hygienic.

Change the Urinary Pouches

The bag is tied with the catheter where the urine is collected. Care workers change the bag in a timely manner without any inconvenience. With time, when a lot of urine is collected in the bag, it becomes heavy and can cause pain. To eliminate this, clean the tip of the catheter gently and connect the new bag.

Efficient Cleaning of Catheter

To ensure the service user remains healthy and safe, it is the responsibility of the care workers to clean the catheter correctly. It’s not an easy process, but it has to be performed gently to get rid of health-related concerns.

Other Precautionary Measures

To ensure patients get the desired care at home, care workers should always wash their hands before and after caring. There should be no blockages or leakage issues in the tube. Also, keep a record of water intake and urine output to estimate the result.

When to Consult For Healthcare Assistance

Emergency care help is recommended when you need immediate attention. If you care for your loved ones, you never see them in painful situations. Here, we will point out a few things that lead to emergencies.

  1. When the catheter is dislocated from the desired position.
  2. If there is a spot of blood in the urine.
  3. The patient undergoes severe abdominal pain which cannot be tolerated.
  4. Reduction in the urine output and your loved one is in pain
  5. When the pipe breaks suddenly & a high amount of urine leakage.
  6. Body temperature fluctuates with time.
  7. When urine smells terrible.

How a Stoma is Catheterised ?

Before we proceed further with the catheterisation process of a stoma, let us understand the term stoma. It is an abdominal opening that allows waste, i.e., faeces or urine, to be removed from your body.

The major purpose of the catheter is to pass urine comfortably without any inconvenience. A tiny tube (catheter) is inserted into the stoma via the opening of the abdomen. The tube can vary in size. The pouch attached is filled with the catheter, which enables you to regulate your stomach when pee comes out. For fast recovery, it’s necessary to have stoma care support assistance to eliminate the future consequences.

Conclusion

Catheter care is a must for those who undergo severe urinary tract problems. Patients can have this care for the short-term or long-term, depending on their different needs. Employ the right catheter care procedure to ensure your loved ones get the proper care and assistance they deserve. Eliminate your stoma or bowel issues by utilising the best practices and live a worry-free life of your choice. Treat and manage urinary tract infections with specialised catheter care solutions.

Donna

As the editor of the blog, She curate insightful content that sparks curiosity and fosters learning. With a passion for storytelling and a keen eye for detail, she strive to bring diverse perspectives and engaging narratives to readers, ensuring every piece informs, inspires, and enriches.