Millions of Americans suffer from conditions such as urinary retention, incontinence, or some other disorder that make a urinary catheter necessary. Urinary catheters provide convenience and help prevent a wide variety of health concerns and embarrassments. If you or your loved one use a urinary catheter, take peace in knowing that you have options.
In today’s post, we will review some of your urinary catheter options and some care and maintenance tips for each.
At HR Pharmaceuticals, we pride ourselves on making high-quality medical products that are safe for use on even the most vulnerable patients. HR Lubricating Jelly makes insertion and maintenance of urinary catheters much more comfortable.
Indwelling Urinary Catheter
Indwelling urinary catheters include the traditional Foley catheter that can be used directly in the urethra, or can be inserted into a suprapubic opening directly through the abdomen and into the bladder. Indwelling catheters collect urine continuously. This is especially convenient for those who leak or who do not have the sensation of fullness or the urge to go.
Indwelling catheters should always be inserted with a water-based lubricant that is viscous. Indwelling catheters should be cleaned, at a minimum, twice daily, with the bag cleaned daily, and the entire system switched out at least monthly. This helps prevent urinary tract infections and other problems.
HR Lubricating Jelly is a superior water-based lubricant that features premium viscosity. Our lube will make the insertion process much more comfortable and reduce friction. It also will not break down the silicone hose or cause an interaction with the materials of the catheter.
Condom Catheter
A condom catheter is a convenient option for males. The father tubing is attached to a condom that slips easily over the penis. Urine is diverted into a discreet leg bag for clean, comfortable, convenience. This type of catheter is especially convenient for the man on the go, who doesn’t suffer from urinary retention.
Condom catheters should be applied with a tacky skin prepping agent to help gently hold the condom in place. It should routinely be removed to allow the skin to air out and to be cleaned, which is especially important for men who are uncircumcised.
Intermittent Self-Cath
The intermittent self-cath, or straight catheter, is convenient for those who suffer from urinary incontinence, prostate problems, or urinary retention. Intermittent catheters are designed to drain urine from the bladder, and then be removed. This can be done as needed to relieve urinary retention or on a regular basis to drain a neurogenic bladder.
Managing an intermittent self-cath takes a little bit of patience and a lot of practice. Practicing an aseptic technique is critical to preventing infection. And, using the right lube is absolutely paramount to inserting a catheter over and over. A high-quality lubricating jelly that is water-based and viscous will allow the catheter to be easily inserted without causing friction or tearing.
HR Lubricating Jelly is a premium lube that offers users a latex-free, water-soluble lubricant with superior viscosity. The single-use OneShot® packaging helps to promote the integrity of an aseptic environment and is easy to use. When you have HR Lubricating Jelly in your arsenal, you will be set up for successful intermittent catheterization.
At HR Pharmaceuticals, we are proud to create superior products that are safe and easy to use, while also providing optimal patient comfort. HR Lubricating Jelly is a smooth and comfortable option that offers a whole host of positive features. If you are managing a urinary catheter at home, try the lubricant you deserve — browse our entire product line today.