Have you recently been told that your child will need to start a regimen of intermittent catheterization? If so, it’s normal to have a few fears about whether or not your child is ready to learn to self-catheterize. Here are a few tips to help you prepare to talk to your child about using pediatric catheters.
At 180 Medical, it’s our goal not only to be here as your trusted catheter company but also to offer the support and resources you and your child need as they start cathing on their own.
Tips for Talking to Your Child About Using Pediatric Catheters
If your child needs to use catheters, they may experience a range of emotions. Some kids approach it like a new normal right off the bat and adjust quickly. Others may feel scared or anxious about the process. They might worry it will hurt or that their friends will know. The best way to help them through this transition is to talk to them. Here are a few tips that may help.
1. Let your child know they’re not alone.
It’s essential to reassure your child that they’re not alone in needing to use pediatric catheters. Make time for a heart-to-heart conversation and let them know that many kids and people of all ages use catheters every day due to various medical conditions.
Catheterization is just one of the many ways that people go to the bathroom. Using urinary catheters can help manage a wide range of medical conditions and needs, including spina bifida, spinal cord injuries, neurogenic bladder, urinary incontinence, and more.
Some people assume that only older adults need catheters, but children as young as newborns may require pediatric catheter supplies. Your child should understand that there’s nothing wrong with using a catheter and that many people use them to drain their bladders and stay healthy.
2. Frame self-cathing as a normal part of their daily routine.
As you acclimate your child to the idea of self-catheterization, help them understand that this is just another normal part of the day. Everybody pees, after all. Some of us just pee differently. Intermittent catheters can help.
Normalizing the process of using catheters can help your child realize they’re not different from others just because they use catheters to manage their condition.
It’s important to explain that, while the initial idea of using intermittent catheters may seem a bit scary, it won’t hurt. It will keep them healthy and free of an attached catheter drain bag.
However, if your child’s catheters ever hurt or causes pain, don’t force the catheter. There are ways to potentially make cathing less painful. First, however, talk to your child’s doctor about the situation.
3. Teach the importance of hygiene to prevent UTIs.
When using catheters, practicing proper hygiene is important for maintaining cleanliness and preventing illness. Explain to your child why they must do their best to practice good hygiene and reduce the risk of contamination, urinary tract infections (UTIs, and other potential complications.
Practice with them, starting with always washing hands thoroughly before handling the catheter supplies. If your insurance covers insertion supplies, such as antiseptic wipes and gloves, you may also use them to help reduce contamination risk. Talk to your child’s healthcare provider about their recommendations.
180 Medical offers helpful instructional videos for boys and girls learning how to catheterize. You can find free downloadable instructions, booklets, and activities at HowToCath.com.
Plus, our Pediatric Catheter Specialists can help you navigate your insurance coverage for pediatric catheters and find the right catheter for your child’s needs.
4. Join the 180 Medical Kids Club.
The 180 Medical Kids Club is a great way to help both kids and parents/caregivers as you all navigate this new transition. Your child can explore a story with characters Ethan and Emma, who have spina bifida and use catheters independently.
The Kids Club offers fun activities with step-by-step, easy-to-understand instructions, making this a great way to help your child adjust to using pediatric catheters.
5. Get the right pediatric catheters for your child’s needs.
When it comes to intermittent catheters, it is not a one-size-fits-all situation. 180 Medical has over 20 years of experience helping customers of all ages find the right insurance-covered catheters for their unique needs.
We understand that what works for one person will not always work for another. That’s why we make it a point to carry an incredibly wide variety of catheter types from top brands.
Pediatric Catheter Support for You and Your Child
Navigating catheter use with your child can feel overwhelming at first, but with open communication, the right resources, proper hygiene practices, and support from 180 Medical, your child can adapt to their new catheterization routine with confidence.
Our Pediatric Catheter Specialists truly care about our customers, and they will listen to your needs, answer your questions, and even help you understand your health insurance’s catheter coverage. From providing pediatric catheterization education to finding just the right catheter for your child, we’re here for you every step of the way.
Get started by requesting free pediatric catheter samples.
Disclaimer: Content provided on 180medical.com is for general educational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment from a qualified healthcare professional. Product and sample availability may vary based on your insurance plan, prescription, and other requirements. Please consult your healthcare provider with any questions about your condition, treatment, or medical supply needs.
