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How to Self-Catheterize

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Using a Hydrophilic Catheter For Females

Important Note on Hydrophilic Catheters: 

Hydrophilic Catheters have water packetsDo you experience pain or discomfort when using a standard uncoated catheter? Hydrophilic catheters may be a good choice for you. Plus, once you get the hang of using hydrophilic catheters, you may find it even easier and more convenient to use. While some brands of hydrophilic catheters come pre-hydrated and ready to use right out the package, others require activation first.

The hydrophilic catheters that need to be activated will usually contain a packet of sterile saline solution. If the catheter has a packet, you must burst the packet to allow the contents to fully soak the catheter. This activates the hydrophilic properties of the catheter. 

To do this, unfold the package. Next, fold the water packet about halfway and apply pressure with your thumb and forefinger. This should burst the package and release the solution. Make sure that the solution has fully coated the catheter. Allow at least 30 seconds to fully hydrate.

Catheter Instructional Videos

 

Hydrophilic Catheters
A message about hydrophilic catheters from 180 Medical Founder Todd Brown.
GentleCath Female Hydrophilic Catheters
GentleCath Female Hydrophilic Catheters
You can completely personalize your video guide for how to use a GentleCath Hydrophilic Female Catheter (or other similar hydrophilic catheters) with step-by-step instructions including options for:

  • cathing from a wheelchair
  • limited hand dexterity
  • sitting
  • lying down
  • standing

Rusch FloCath Quick Kit

This video demonstrates how to prepare the Rusch FloCath Quick Kit or similar hydrophilic catheters that include a water packet.

CompactCath Catheter

This video demonstrates how to use the pre-lubricated CompactCath catheter, which comes inside a clear palm-sized case.

Hi-Slip Full Plus Hydrophilic Catheter

This video shows how to prepare the Hi-Slip Full Plus for insertion. It includes information on how to activate the hydrophilic coating like with many other hydrophilic catheters.

GentleCath™ Trainer: a personalized video guide on how-to-cath built to suit your needs
A customizable video with step-by-step instructions and tips based on your approach to cathing.
BD Magic3™ Hydrophilic Intermittent Catheter Guide for Females
BD’s intermittent self-catheterization guide for females learning how to cath with a hydrophilic Magic3™ catheter.
BD Magic3™ GO Female Catheter Instruction Guide for Women
BD’s instructional catheterization video for how to cath using a BD Magic3™ GO Female Catheter.

 

Mature content disclaimer: certain content may contain graphic depictions and descriptions of catheterization for informational and educational purposes, which may be offensive to some viewers. 180 Medical disclaims all responsibility for such materials.

 

Please note that this is intended to provide a general understanding of self-catheterization. It should not be used in place of a visit, call, or consultation with a physician or other healthcare provider.
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