Are you new to using catheters? If so, you probably have some questions. You might even wonder what issues you could encounter or whether there are common mistakes that people new to catheter use sometimes make.
Let’s go over some of the top issues that affect people new to self-catheterization and how we can troubleshoot common catheterization concerns.
Top 5 Common Mistakes When New to Catheter Usage
There’s no denying it’s not always an easy transition to go from being able to urinate on your own to using a tube to drain your bladder. However, before long, it can become second nature. All you need is a little information on how to use catheters hygienically, along with some practice.
So, what are some common mistakes people new to using catheters sometimes make? And how can you avoid these problems with self-catheterization? Here are a few answers to those questions.
Mistake 1. Not Using Enough Lubricant
First and foremost, when using an uncoated straight catheter, it’s important to ensure enough lubricating jelly is applied to the tube.
Some people find that using a pre-lubricated catheter, a hydrophilic catheter, or a closed system catheter is more comfortable than standard uncoated catheters with separate lubricating jelly.
Why is using catheter lubricant important for insertion?
Because it reduces friction inside the urethra or stoma passage when you’re inserting the catheter. Friction can cause microtears in the urethral lining (urethral trauma).
According to the Urology Care Foundation™, the foundation of the American Urological Association, urethral trauma may sometimes create scarring, which might later block the flow of urine. It may also lead to a higher susceptibility to getting UTIs (urinary tract infections).
How do you apply lubricant to a catheter?
There are a few different ways to apply lubrication to your catheter. First, it’s always a good idea to make sure your hands are clean prior to handling your catheter supplies. Wash your hands well with warm, soapy water or use a disinfecting wipe.
Next, get ready to apply your lubricating jelly, whether that’s a sterile lubricant packet or a tube.
Method 1: Tear or trim off the ends of your lubricating jelly packet. Then slide your uncoated catheter inside the packet and move it back and forth to adequately coat the tube.
Method 2: Trim or tear one corner of your catheter lubricant packet, or open your lubricant tube. Then, squeeze the lubricant along the length of the catheter tube. If you want to spread it manually, consider wearing gloves to help reduce the risk of contamination.
Helpful Catheter Lubrication Tip
Sterile lubricant packets may make the catheterization process more hygienic than using the same tube of lubricant each time. A handy bonus: lubricating jelly packets can be more conveniently sized for discreet carrying — even in a pocket.
Mistake 2. Not following your prescribed catheterization schedule.
One of the most important parts of starting to use catheters is following your prescription. Intermittent catheters are medical devices that require a prescription for use.
If your doctor or prescribing healthcare professional has instructed you to start using catheters, then catheters are medically necessary to drain your bladder based on their diagnosis of your condition. This can be for all kinds of reasons, such as an enlarged prostate or BPH, incomplete bladder emptying or urine dribbling, bladder retention, or a recent spinal cord injury, to name a few.
No matter the reason, maintaining your bladder’s health is important. So be sure to catheterize the number of times per day your doctor recommends and always prepare before leaving your house with enough catheters.
Mistake 3. Not drinking enough water for your needs.
If you’re new to catheter usage and you don’t want to use catheters, you’re not alone. Lots of people face some fears at first or even an aversion to the self-catheterization procedure. This can lead to not drinking enough water to avoid having to self-cath as often.
However, referring back to Mistake 2, following your healthcare provider’s prescription is incredibly important. Plus, staying well-hydrated is important for your overall body health.
Your best point of reference for how much fluid is right for you is your doctor or healthcare provider.
Mistake 4. Forcing a catheter in.
One complication that can occur with using intermittent catheters to empty the bladder is sustaining trauma or an injury. Not everyone has an easy time inserting a catheter, especially at first. But you should never force a catheter, or you might cause an injury.
A common reason behind initial resistance may be tight muscles due to nervousness about the cathing procedure. If you’re trying to insert a catheter and it just feels like it doesn’t want to go in, take a break. Take some deep breaths in through your nose, hold it for a moment, and then release. Do this a couple of times to start relaxing your body. Then make sure your catheter is adequately lubricated and try again. Sometimes, coughing may help.
However, if you’re still feeling resistance inside your body or even some pain, stop and call your doctor. There may be a urethral obstruction or something else hindering the insertion process. It’s best to speak with a qualified medical professional to determine the cause.
Mistake 5. Reusing your catheters.
Some people may feel it cuts back on waste or reduces costs. However, reusing catheters may be associated with a higher risk of CAUTIs (catheter-associated urinary tract infections).
If you’ve ever had a UTI before, you already know they’re no fun at all. Plus, it means additional doctor’s visits or even trips to the emergency room if it gets bad enough, which often means spending more money on medical bills.
Ultimately, your doctor or other prescribing healthcare professional is the best person to talk to about whether sterile use (using a catheter once and then disposing of it) is right for you and your needs.
180 Medical Is Here For Your Intermittent Catheter Needs
We know the transition to learning to use catheters isn’t always easy. Some of our employees know that firsthand. Our goal is to make this journey as stress-free as possible so you can get back to living your life.
Experience the 180 Medical difference by contacting us for a free personalized consultation about your product needs.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Information provided on 180medical.com should not be used as a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment from a qualified healthcare professional. Please consult your healthcare provider with any questions about your condition, treatment, or medical supply needs.
