Catheter what is it

Urinary catheters come in many sizes and types. They can be made of:. The pressure can lead to kidney failure , which can be dangerous and result in permanent damage to the kidneys. Most catheters are necessary until you regain the ability to urinate on your own, which is usually a short period of time. Elderly people and those with a permanent injury or severe illness may need to use urinary catheters for a much longer time or permanently.

There are three main types of catheters: indwelling catheters, external catheters, and short-term catheters. An indwelling catheter is a catheter that resides in the bladder. It may also be known as a Foley catheter. This type can be useful for short and long periods of time. A nurse usually inserts an indwelling catheter into the bladder through the urethra. Sometimes, a healthcare provider will insert the catheter into the bladder through a tiny hole in the abdomen.

This type of indwelling catheter is known as a suprapubic catheter. A tiny balloon at the end of the catheter is inflated with water to prevent the tube from sliding out of the body. The balloon can then deflate when the catheter needs to be removed. A condom catheter is a catheter placed outside the body. A device that looks like a condom covers the penis head. A tube leads from the condom device to a drainage bag.

These catheters are generally more comfortable and carry a lower risk of infection than indwelling catheters. Condom catheters usually need to be changed daily, but some brands are designed for longer use. These can cause less skin irritation than condom catheters that require daily removal and reapplication.

A wound, ostomy , and continence nurse WOCN can help make these recommendations. A person may only need a catheter for a short period of time after surgery until the bladder empties. A doctor may prescribe medications to reduce the frequency and intensity of these spasms. People with an indwelling catheter may notice debris in the catheter tube. Though normal, these mineral deposits can sometimes block the catheter and prevent drainage. It is essential for a person to notify a healthcare provider immediately if their catheter becomes blocked, or if they are passing blood clots or large pieces of debris.

Long-term use of the indwelling catheter can cause pain and discomfort. It is important to discuss this with a doctor, who will be able to provide or advise on appropriate pain relief. Some males have the option of using an external catheter. This is a condom-like device that fits over the penis. A tube attached to the catheter collects urine into a drainage bag. Doctors usually recommend external catheters for males with incontinence who do not experience urinary blockages or retention and can use the catheter themselves.

Because external catheters do not enter the urethra, they tend to cause very little discomfort. Compared with indwelling catheters, they are also less likely to cause a UTI. Although external catheters for females do exist, they are rare in clinical settings due to concerns over their safety and effectiveness.

These catheters are generally poor at collecting urine and can cause damage to the surrounding skin and vaginal mucosa. Some people may find living with a catheter challenging and uncomfortable at first. However, as people become more accustomed to the catheter, they generally find that it has less impact on their daily lives.

This section provides tips on how to prevent and overcome some of the possible complications of catheter use. The main disadvantage of using a catheter is that it can allow certain bacteria to enter the body and cause infection. The risk of infection is highest when using an indwelling catheter. It is possible for a person using a urinary catheter to carry out most of their regular activities.

A doctor will advise when it is safe for a person to resume working, exercising, or having sex. Many people who use a catheter are concerned about the effect that it may have on their sex life.

Generally, however, people with an intermittent or suprapubic catheter can have sex as normal. Those with a urethral catheter may find sex more difficult, but it is still possible. Males who use an external catheter can usually remove the sheath during sex or place a standard condom over the top of it.

In some cases, it is possible to temporarily remove the tube and drainage bag. People who use a drainage bag with their catheter may wish to talk to their healthcare provider about the possibility of switching to a valve system. This can make sex easier and more comfortable.

A urinary catheter is an important aid for people who have difficulty passing urine. There are several different types available, and a person should talk to their doctor about the type that is best suited to their needs. A common complication of using any type of catheter is an increased risk of UTIs.

Home Treatments and tests What is a catheter? What is a catheter? A catheter is a tube that is inserted into your bladder, allowing your urine to drain freely. The most common reasons for using a catheter are: to rest the bladder following an episode of urinary retention to rest the bladder after surgery — most commonly bladder, bowel or urinary tract surgery for conditions such as stroke or multiple sclerosis due to complications of diabetes because of spinal injury for conditions which affect the nerves that supply the bladder.

It is important that you let your doctor or nurse know if you are taking blood-thinning medications such as: aspirin warfarin clopidogrel. Different types of catheters There are different types of catheters available. Self-intermittent catheterisation Self-intermittent catheterisation is a non-sterile clean procedure which has a low risk of infection when performed in your own home.

Urinary and suprapubic Urinary and suprapubic catheters can stay in place for: a short time for a few days or weeks a longer period of time to manage your bladder.

Acknowledgements Royal Perth Hospital.