Since the introduction of clean intermittent catheterization, catheter technology has continued to advance. Because urinary tract infections are a concern for people who use catheters, many prefer options like no-touch catheters, which may help reduce contamination from hand contact.
Find out more with our handy guide to no-touch catheters.
What is a No-Touch Catheter?
No-touch catheters (also known as touch-free catheters or touchless catheters) are advanced catheter products that keep your hands from directly touching the catheter tube during catheterization.
Touching the catheter tube directly with your hands can contaminate it, potentially increasing the risk of urinary tract infections. No-touch catheters are designed to help reduce this risk.
Types of No-Touch Catheters
Depending on your insurance coverage, you have several options from all catheter types when choosing a no-touch catheter.
Not sure what your insurance covers? 180 Medical can help!
Get started by securely sending your plan’s info, and we can verify your insurance plan for you. Then we’ll reach out and go over your options based on your coverage and prescription.
Closed System Catheters
Closed system catheters are the preferred cathing system for many, including people in wheelchairs, children, and those who frequently travel, work, or go to school.
These pre-lubricated catheters come ready to use, packaged in their own sterile collection bags. Others may have a hydrophilic coating that becomes lubricated when activated with sterile water. Closed system catheter kits often have everything you need to cath hygienically in an all-in-one package. Insertion supplies often include helpful cathing accessories, such as gloves and antiseptic wipes.
Another feature of many closed system catheters is the pre-lubricated introducer tip, which helps shield the catheter and help it bypass the outermost section of the urethra, where bacteria are often more concentrated. This may help reduce the risk of UTIs due to bacterial contamination.
Hydrophilic Catheters
Hydrophilic catheters are designed to be activated by water, although some options come pre-activated and ready to use.
The coating or properties of a hydrophilic catheter act as catheter lubrication, facilitating a smoother insertion.
Many hydrophilic catheters are no-touch catheters, thanks to the included handling sleeves or grippers that help keep your hands from directly touching the catheter tube.
Pre-Lubricated Catheters and Ready-to-Use Catheters
Pre-lubricated touch-free catheters offer an added level of ease and convenience. These catheters come pre-lubricated, eliminating the need for manual lubrication and reducing preparation time. Since the catheter is ready to use right out of the package, there’s no need to touch the catheter tube, which can help lower the risk of contamination.
Most touch-free catheters also feature guide sleeves, allowing you to insert the catheter without handling the tube directly, keeping your hands off the catheter itself. This makes self-cathing quicker and more hygienic, whether you’re at home or on the go. It’s a convenient, travel-friendly solution for anyone who values a simpler, more straightforward process.
Straight Catheters
Most intermittent straight catheters aren’t technically considered no-touch catheters, although you can still use a no-touch catheterization technique.
Even with uncoated catheters, there are ways to minimize direct hand contact and make self-catheterization more hygienic. Many users pair uncoated catheters with catheter insertion supplies like antiseptic wipes and gloves, which may help keep the process more hygienic.
Using gloves or handling the catheter by its funnel can still reduce direct hand contact with the catheter tube. Talk to our trained specialists to explore your options and learn how to catheterize hygienically.
Where to Buy No-Touch Catheters
If you’re looking for a reliable catheter company to provide the supplies you need, contact 180 Medical. Right away, we’ll connect you with a trained specialist who can go over your insurance-covered options based on your plan’s benefits and your prescription.
We’ll coordinate with your healthcare provider to get any needed documentation, taking that extra step off your plate. And we can help you try free samples based on your unique needs, coverage, and healthcare provider’s recommendations, so you can find the right no-touch catheter for you.
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.
