Do you or a loved one use a catheter? Catheters can be very helpful tools for individuals that are struggling with dealing with incontinence, urinary retention, or other health issues. However, without proper care, catheters can be a bit dangerous and may cause the user to develop an infection. Fortunately, we have 5 tips to that can help you prevent an infection caused by a catheter.
1. Make sure it’s inserted properly. One of the most common causes of infections from catheter stems from them being inserted improperly. When a catheter is not inserted correctly it can cause bacteria to travel along the catheter track and build up in the protein sheath. Catheters should always be inserted aseptically with sterilized materials including gloves, drapes, sponges, antiseptic solution, and lubricant. You can usually find a package with all catheter supplies available to purchase online. Additionally, the smallest and softest possible catheter should be used not only for comfort, but to prevent irritation and to allow for proper drainage. If you are unsure of how to properly insert your catheter, ask for help from a medical professional such as a nurse.
2. Be sure your needles are properly disinfected. While it is unlikely that a medical professional will use a “dirty” needle for catheter insertion, you’d be surprised by how many needles end up being improperly sterilized. Needles need to be thoroughly sterilized in an antiseptic solution to kill all bacteria. Without sterilization, needles can cause bacteria to be pushed into the catheter.
3. Be sure to properly manage your catheter once it’s inserted. Just because your catheter’s inserted doesn’t mean your job is done! Once you have your catheter inserted you’ll want to make sure to properly maintain it to avoid infection. Be sure to empty the collection bag on a regular basis. When in use, the collection bag should stay close to the bladder and never on the floor. Be sure to keep the spigot clean to avoid contamination.
4. Avoid using a catheter more than necessary. Using a catheter when not needed can not only be uncomfortable, but outright dangerous. Excessive use of a catheter can cause a CAUTI (Catheter-Associated Urinary Tract Infection). The most common misuse of a catheter tends to occur after a patient has had surgery and they keep the catheter in for more than 2 days. Always ask your doctor how long your catheter needs to stay in. If you suspect it’s been in for longer than necessary, don’t be afraid to speak up.
5. Remove the catheter with utmost care. You know you need to insert the catheter carefully to avoid causing pain or having your skin rupture, so why would removing the catheter be any different? The catheter should be removed slowly and cautiously. Take your time properly identifying the balloon port and then cutting the valve off. This should release the clean water inside the valve. Be sure to wait for all of the water to drain out completely. Once this is complete, gently remove the catheter by giving it a steady pull. Do not jerk it out or you can cause unnecessary pain and irritation. You can also reduce the pain of removing the catheter by removing it in the shower with warm water or by using a lubricating jelly on the catheter.
When you follow these 5 tips you’ll be able to use your catheter much more comfortably and without the risk of infection.
1. Make sure it’s inserted properly. One of the most common causes of infections from catheter stems from them being inserted improperly. When a catheter is not inserted correctly it can cause bacteria to travel along the catheter track and build up in the protein sheath. Catheters should always be inserted aseptically with sterilized materials including gloves, drapes, sponges, antiseptic solution, and lubricant. You can usually find a package with all catheter supplies available to purchase online. Additionally, the smallest and softest possible catheter should be used not only for comfort, but to prevent irritation and to allow for proper drainage. If you are unsure of how to properly insert your catheter, ask for help from a medical professional such as a nurse.
2. Be sure your needles are properly disinfected. While it is unlikely that a medical professional will use a “dirty” needle for catheter insertion, you’d be surprised by how many needles end up being improperly sterilized. Needles need to be thoroughly sterilized in an antiseptic solution to kill all bacteria. Without sterilization, needles can cause bacteria to be pushed into the catheter.
3. Be sure to properly manage your catheter once it’s inserted. Just because your catheter’s inserted doesn’t mean your job is done! Once you have your catheter inserted you’ll want to make sure to properly maintain it to avoid infection. Be sure to empty the collection bag on a regular basis. When in use, the collection bag should stay close to the bladder and never on the floor. Be sure to keep the spigot clean to avoid contamination.
4. Avoid using a catheter more than necessary. Using a catheter when not needed can not only be uncomfortable, but outright dangerous. Excessive use of a catheter can cause a CAUTI (Catheter-Associated Urinary Tract Infection). The most common misuse of a catheter tends to occur after a patient has had surgery and they keep the catheter in for more than 2 days. Always ask your doctor how long your catheter needs to stay in. If you suspect it’s been in for longer than necessary, don’t be afraid to speak up.
5. Remove the catheter with utmost care. You know you need to insert the catheter carefully to avoid causing pain or having your skin rupture, so why would removing the catheter be any different? The catheter should be removed slowly and cautiously. Take your time properly identifying the balloon port and then cutting the valve off. This should release the clean water inside the valve. Be sure to wait for all of the water to drain out completely. Once this is complete, gently remove the catheter by giving it a steady pull. Do not jerk it out or you can cause unnecessary pain and irritation. You can also reduce the pain of removing the catheter by removing it in the shower with warm water or by using a lubricating jelly on the catheter.
When you follow these 5 tips you’ll be able to use your catheter much more comfortably and without the risk of infection.