At some point in our lives, we may require the use of a catheter. This medical device is one that is often talked about. However, you might not know how long they?ve been around. If you or someone you know is starting out using a catheter, knowing how to maintain these devices are essential. In this post, you will learn more about catheters as well as tips on keeping them in great condition.

What is a Catheter?

A catheter is a device that is made for a wide variety of situations. For over 3500 years, catheters have been utilized to help the bladder function properly. Catheters are commonly used to treat diseases and provide proper urinary functions. The catheter bag is made to hold the urine that has been expelled. A catheter valve helps to ensure urine is locked into a bag until it is ready to be poured out.

When properly inserted, a catheter will provide efficient elimination or gases and liquids within the body. In most cases, a catheter is used for short-term use. However, older patients may require the use of an indwelling catheter that is made to reside permanently within the body.

What Are Common Conditions a Catheter is Used For?

There are many conditions that someone live with that may require a catheter. One of the most common symptoms treated by a urinary catheter is incontinence. Urinary incontinence occurs when someone is unable to control when they have to urinate. On the other hand, a patient may experience a condition where they are unable to urine properly.

In both cases, a catheter helps to regulate when urine is produced in a safe manner. A catheter valve allows for urine to be emptied. Patients who have recently undergone surgery may require the use of a catheter. However, this kind of catheter is often temporary and removed before a patient leaves a medical facility.

Men who suffer from incontinence will typically require the use of a condom catheter. This catheter is one that doesn?t require the use of an internally inserted tube. Instead, this system is less invasive and involves placing a condom like cover over the male urinary instrument.

Maintenance Tips for Catheters

Caring for a catheter is easily done at home. You will want to ensure you have the necessary medical supplies from the proper facility. A medical supplier will help to ensure you have all parts, including a catheter stopper. One of the most important tips to keeping a catheter in working condition is to regularly empty it. However, it can sometimes be hard to figure out when to empty your bag. When it is time to empty out the catheter, a catheter valve makes this task very simple.

It is recommended to empty a catheter bag at least two times per day. You will want to change to a drainage bag when sleeping. This bag can easily be cleaned by rinsing in a solution of one part vinegar to three parts water. You may soak the bag in this solution for around 20 minutes. Next, you will rinse the bag out with relatively warm water and hang it up in a dry location of your home.

In closing, the catheter is a fascinating medical device. A catheter has been used for thousand of years to help to the body with several functions. Catheters are mainly used to help the body expel urine in a proper way. The catheter valve allows for urine to be sent into a bag, for later emptying. It is recommended to empty a catheter bag two times per day or when it has reached the halfway full point. Cleaning a catheter bag can be done by mixing a solution of 25 percent vinegar and 75 percent water. Airing out the bag for about 20 minutes will have it clean and ready for use again. Following the previously mentioned tips will ensure that you have a well maintained catheter system in place.