Being new to catheters can feel a little awkward or overwhelming at first. You may have questions about the steps or worry you’re making mistakes as you learn how to use catheters. Most people just need time to get comfortable with their new catheterization routine.
With the right instructions and a bit of practice, self-catheterization can get easier. Below are five common catheter mistakes and how to avoid them.
5 Common Mistakes When New to Using Catheters
Here are some common problems people new to catheterization may face, along with helpful tips.
Mistake 1. Not Using Enough Lubricant
If you’re using an uncoated catheter, ensure that enough lubricating jelly is applied to the tube. Catheter lubricant can help the catheter slide more smoothly and make insertion more comfortable.
Not using lubricant or using too little may cause friction or irritation to the delicate urethral tissue. If you’re not sure how much to use, talk to your healthcare provider.
Some people find that using a pre-lubricated, hydrophilic, or closed system catheter is more comfortable than standard uncoated catheters with separate lubricating jelly.
Mistake 2. Waiting too long between catheterizations
It’s easy to lose track of time when you’re busy, away from home, or still getting used to your prescribed catheterization schedule during the day. But waiting too long to cath may let your bladder become overly full, which can cause discomfort or even leakage.
It’s important to try to stick to the schedule your urologist or prescribing healthcare provider gave you, even if you don’t feel a strong urge to urinate. Some bladder conditions, especially ones that impact the nerves, can make it harder to tell when your bladder is full and you need to go.
Setting reminders on your phone or watch can be helpful when you’re building your routine.
Also, when you leave home, be sure to bring enough catheters for the time you expect to be gone, plus a few extras in case your plans change.
Mistake 3. Not drinking enough water for your needs.
When catheterization feels inconvenient or stressful, drinking less fluid may seem like an easy way to avoid cathing as often as you’re prescribed.
But cutting back on water may leave you dehydrated. Unless your doctor has told you to limit fluids, be sure to follow their guidance on how much to drink and how often to self-cath.
Mistake 4. Forcing the catheter.
Sometimes the catheter may not slide in as easily as expected. But you don’t want to force it.
Just take a pause, relax your body, and take a few slow breaths. Check your position and make sure the catheter is well lubricated. Then try again, as your healthcare provider or urology nurse showed you.
If the catheter still won’t easily pass, stop and call your healthcare provider. Repeated issues with resistance or difficulty inserting a catheter may mean your doctor needs to review your catheter size or tip style.
Some people who can’t pass a straight-tip catheter may be prescribed a coudé catheter, which has a gently curved tip to help it pass past certain areas of resistance in the urethra. Only use one if your healthcare provider has prescribed coudé catheters.
Mistake 5. Reusing your catheters.
The majority of intermittent catheters are made specifically for sterile, single-use. Based on those guidelines, use a new catheter each time and throw it away after use.
Cleaning and reusing a single-use catheter may increase the risk of contamination or infection. Be sure to follow the directions on the package and the instructions from your healthcare provider.
If you’re reusing your catheters because you’re running low or worried about cost, contact 180 Medical. We can review your insurance coverage and help you understand your options.
Other Problems New Catheter Users May Run Into
Even when you follow the steps carefully, catheterization may not go perfectly every time. Here are a few other common concerns you might face, and when you should call your healthcare provider.
The catheter is hard to control.
Catheters come in different materials and levels of firmness. Some may be soft and more flexible, while others are firmer.
Plus, some catheter users may have varying levels of hand function and mobility, which can make certain catheters harder to use than others.
If your catheter feels difficult to open, handle, or control during catheterization, reach out to 180 Medical. It’s possible that another catheter material or type may be a better option for you.
Catheterization keeps hurting.
A little discomfort can happen at first, but severe or ongoing pain isn’t something you should just accept.
Make sure you’re using enough lubricant and following the cathing technique your healthcare provider taught you. If the pain continues, talk to them. They may need to check your catheter size, type, insertion tip style, and insertion technique.
You keep touching the catheter tube.
You may find it easier to use a catheter with an included protective sleeve or a touch-free feature that lets you handle the product without directly touching the catheter tube.
Talk to 180 Medical about your options, whether that’s practicing a touch-free technique or trying another catheter type that may be covered by your insurance.
You Don’t Have to Figure It Out Alone.
We know the transition to learning to use catheters isn’t always easy. Some of our employees understand that firsthand. Our goal is to make this journey as stress-free as possible so you can get back to living your life.
If your current catheter is uncomfortable, difficult to handle, or doesn’t feel discreet enough for your daily needs, our specialists can help you explore other insurance-covered product options.
