A urinary catheter is a medical device used to maintain a patent urinary or fecal continence in patients who cannot control their bladder. Not only is it beneficial for urinary conditions, but it is also possible to use it for cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, neurovascular, and even ophthalmic applications.
The most popular use case for catheters is Intermittent Catheterization. This medical technique is used for patients who need short periods of catheter-based management of their urinary issues, such as urinary retentions, which means an ability to void on their own. Intermittent Catheterization is the gold standard for emptying a person's bladder medically.
For this reason, doctors prescribe patients to use urinary catheters independently after proper education on inserting and removing a catheter. There are two common types of catheters, the straight-tip catheter, and the coudé tip urinary catheter. Both of which are specified to one's needs by the prescribing doctor.
How does an intermittent Catheterization work?
Intermittent Catheterization is a common treatment for people with chronic urinary retention. This treatment aims to empty the bladder several times throughout the day, so it does not become too full and cause discomfort and pain, interfering with the normal daily activities.
Intermittent Catheterization can also be used for people who cannot drain their bladders completely because of aging or other health conditions. When a catheter is inserted through a male or female urinary tract, it becomes a passageway for accumulated urine from the bladder to a collection unit.
What is a straight-tip catheter?
A straight-tip urinary catheter is a long, thin, flexible tube used to help the doctor insert a line into the patient's bladder. It has a sharp point at one end and an open end (eyelets) at the other. Straight-tip catheters are used to treat acute and chronic urinary tract conditions.
Pros of using straight-tip catheters
Straight-tip catheters are safe, easy to use, and inexpensive. And because of its perfectly straight tip, many medical professionals find it simple to insert – it greatly relieves them and the patients. Also, straight-tip catheters can be used by individuals without the assistance of any medical professionals.
Cons of using straight-tip catheters
Some individuals or medical professionals find trouble using straight-tip catheters. Because if it is inserted uncomfortably or wrong, the catheter is forced, and the patient will have a risk of trauma on the insertion site – a trauma that can cause a higher risk of kidney and bladder infections. Also, straight-tip catheters need to maintain as clean as possible to prevent contamination and pain.
What is a Coudé Tip Catheter?
A coudé tip catheter is a type of catheter that has a soft bend in the tip, which is then covered with a thin layer of silicone. It is usually used when inserting a traditional straight-tip catheter is difficult because of the presence of blood or other fluids.
Pros of using Coudé Tip Urinary Catheters
The pros of using this type of catheter are similar to using straight tips, but coudé tip catheters offer more comfort than straight ones. Especially if the patient has a blockage or enlarged form of the organ insertion. The slight curve of coudé tip catheters also reduces irritation because it has less friction. And if it's for a male patient with prostate conditions, it's better to use coudé tips to match the curve of their urethras.
Cons of using Coudé Tip Catheters
The biggest con of using this type of tip is it requires precision during the insertion to avoid discomfort. This is why an individual cannot use coudé tip catheters without the supervision of a medical professional.
What is the best catheter type for intermittent Catheterization?
The most common insertion tip for this procedure is the straight-tip catheter. But, it still depends on the comfort level an explicit or coudé information gives the patient. And even if a straight-tip catheter can be used without professional medical supervision, it's still best to seek medical advice before doing it. Remember, self-catheterization or clean intermittent catheterization still carries some risks of infection.
Determining the best catheters for you
The type of catheter a procedure might need depends on each person's circumstances. For instance, some people prefer straight-tip catheters because of their mobility and comfort, while some prefer coudé tips for intermittent Catheterization.
Start consulting your urologist or medical professional in case of discomfort, especially during the process. Always discuss any medical history with your doctor to determine the best action for the situation.
Safety tips during intermittent Catheterization
Although intermittent Catheterization is safe, it can still cause discomfort and pain. Due to this procedure, some people may experience bleeding, infection, and urinary tract damage. To minimize these risks and prevent injuries from occurring during intermittent Catheterization, some safety tips should be followed:
First, use sterile gloves when handling the catheter and tubing during the procedure. Second, cleanse the skin before inserting the catheters. Third, ensure that you sit on your toilet with your feet raised before inserting them into your bladder. Next, contact the doctor if you feel discomfort or accidentally puncture your bladder while using the catheter. And most importantly, if there is blood visible in the urine, contact your doctor immediately.
Where to buy intermittent catheters
The intermittent catheter is ideal for people with bladder control problems or who have difficulty urinating due to various medical conditions. If you need a ready-to-use intermittent catheter and have a doctor's order, you can find your catheter at Sky Medical Supplies. Sky Medical Supply is a medical store in Denver, Colorado. We offer many medical supplies, including sterile cure and Mckesson, single-use, and intermittent catheters.